Sergey Stanishev Returns to BSP Leadership as New Executive Bureau is Elected
Sofia, Bulgaria – February 23, 2026 – The Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP) National Council elected a new Executive Bureau on Saturday, February 21, 2026, signaling a potential shift in the party’s direction as it prepares for upcoming early elections. The return of former BSP leader Sergey Stanishev to the bureau was a notable development, alongside the appointments of Atanas Merdzhanov, Donka Mihaylova, Zhelyo Boychev and Ivan Takov as deputy chairs.
New Leadership Structure
The newly elected Executive Bureau includes the following members: Atanas Telcharov, Valeri Zhablyanov, Vladimir Aleksandrov, Gabriel Valkov, Enyo Savov, Yordan Mladenov, Mina Kuteva, Pavel Ralichkov, Petko Dimitrov, Plamen Vladimirov, Sergey Stanishev, Svetlana Sharenkova, Sonya Kelevedzhieva, and Trifon Panchev. BTA News reported the composition of the bureau following the National Council meeting.
Zarkov’s Strategy for Mobilization
The appointments were made under the leadership of Krum Zarkov, the new leader of the BSP, who expressed his intention to mobilize the party and encourage voters to support the BSP rather than other political projects, particularly those linked to former President Rumen Radev. Zarkov emphasized the importance of the BSP maintaining its identity and relevance in the political landscape.
Focus on Core Party Members and Youth
A key aspect of Zarkov’s strategy appears to be a focus on strengthening the party’s base by nominating proven party members for leadership positions in candidate lists. Many of the list leaders were nominated by local structures, rather than relying on high-profile figures. The bureau also includes younger members, such as Gabriel Valkov and Atanas Atanasov, who are expected to contribute to the party’s appeal to younger voters.
Stanishev’s Rationale for Return
Sergey Stanishev, who led the BSP from 2001 to 2014 and served as Prime Minister of Bulgaria from 2005 to 2009, explained his decision to rejoin the Executive Bureau, stating that his experience is “not a luxury, but a necessity” given the party’s current critical situation. News.bg reported Stanishev’s comments, where he emphasized the need for clarity regarding the BSP’s identity, trust, and direction.
Deputy Chairs Appointed
Alongside Zarkov, the BSP will be led by four deputy chairs: Atanas Merdzhanov, Zhelyo Boychev, Donka Mihailova, and Ivan Takov. These appointments reflect a blend of experience and regional representation within the party.
Zhablyanov on Opposition within the BSP
Valeri Zhablyanov, a member of the newly formed Executive Bureau, has previously expressed concerns about a lack of clear opposition within the BSP. Fakti.bg reported that Zhablyanov questioned the timing of choosing a new chairman, suggesting that a complete renewal of the party is needed before seeking a new leader.