Kövesi Denies Link to Borissov Detention, GERB Leader Cites Vindication

Brussels, Belgium – European Chief Prosecutor Laura Kövesi stated on March 18, 2026, that the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) had no involvement in the 2022 detention of former Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov. The statement came during a hearing in the European Parliament, according to reporting from BNT News . Kövesi declined to elaborate on the ongoing suspension procedures concerning Bulgarian European Prosecutor Teodora Georgieva.

Borissov Claims Vindication

Boyko Borissov, leader of the GERB party, responded to Kövesi’s remarks while attending the 50th-anniversary celebrations of the European People’s Party (EPP) in Brussels. He characterized Kövesi’s statement as confirmation that the allegations surrounding his 2022 detention were “fabricated.” Borissov stated, “The European Prosecutor’s Office today said what we said four years ago – that they fabricated a process.”

Political Context and Upcoming Elections

Borissov emphasized the importance of GERB’s continued support within the EPP, noting the party’s consistent backing from the largest political family in Europe. He expressed confidence in securing votes from Bulgarian citizens in the upcoming April elections, while as well indicating it was premature to discuss potential post-election coalition scenarios. He highlighted the role GERB played in securing Bulgaria’s path toward Eurozone membership, Schengen Area access, and the utilization of the Recovery and Sustainability Plan, attributing these achievements to securing support from the “DPS-New Beginning” party.

Global Challenges and Fuel Prices

Addressing broader global issues, Borissov acknowledged the challenges posed by ongoing conflicts in Iran, Gaza, and Ukraine. He suggested that disruptions to international trade routes, such as the Strait of Hormuz, would inevitably lead to increased fuel prices, and refrained from criticizing the current Bulgarian government on this matter, citing objective circumstances.

GERB’s Role within the EPP

Borissov underscored GERB’s longstanding relationship with the EPP, emphasizing the party’s consistent contribution to the stability and development of the European Union. He called for unity within the European political family amidst ongoing elections and crises.

Background: 2022 Detention and Allegations

In March 2022, Boyko Borissov was detained by Bulgarian police for a day, an action described by Manfred Weber of the EPP as an “illegal breach of the fundamental principle of the rule of law” . Weber criticized the detention as an arbitrary order from the Interior Minister, alleging it was a politically motivated act of propaganda. A 2022 report by Politico noted that Borissov was quickly released without charges, and that the prosecutor’s office was reluctant to pursue the case.

Editor: Kalina Petkova