Rumen Radev Enters Bulgarian Election Race

Former Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has registered to participate in the upcoming April 19 elections, marking a significant shift in the political landscape. This move comes after repeated invitations from the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (DPS) for him to join the electoral field. Radev served as President of Bulgaria from 2017 to 2026, becoming the first Bulgarian president to resign from office in the country’s post-communist history.

DPS Registration and Reactions

Iskra Mihailova, deputy chairwoman of the DPS, welcomed Radev’s entry into the race. The DPS submitted 12,222 signatures to the Central Election Commission (CEC) and is participating independently this year, having previously run as a coalition (“DPS – Modern Beginning”) in the last elections. DPS leader Delyan Peevski personally signed the registration documents. Mihailova stated the party believes people understand and support them and will focus on a positive campaign for Bulgaria’s future.

BSP’s Position and Potential Coalition

The Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP) – United Left, led by Krum Zarkov, is also contesting the elections. Zarkov presented the documents to the CEC, utilizing a power of attorney from former BSP leader Atanas Zafirov as he is not yet officially registered as chairman with the Sofia City Court. Zarkov expressed confidence in the BSP’s parliamentary representation and highlighted a mobilization of Bulgarian socialists. While the possibility of a coalition with Radev remains open, Zarkov emphasized that the BSP will not be subordinated again.

Other Parties and Coalitions Registered

Several other parties and coalitions have registered for the April 19 elections, including:

• The Alliance for Rights and Freedoms (Ahmed Dogan’s party), in a coalition with the People’s Agricultural Union and SBOR.
• GERB, in coalition with SDS.
• ITN (There Is Such a People).
• Vazrazhdane.
• Disobedient Bulgaria (led by former social leader Kornelia Ninova).
• Velichie.
• The “Third of March” coalition (details of its participants were not available at the time of reporting).

Current Political Climate

As of March 3, 2026, a total of 10 parties and 8 coalitions have submitted documents to the CEC, setting the stage for a competitive election. Rumen Radev’s participation adds a new dynamic to the race, and potential coalition formations remain a key aspect of the unfolding political scenario.

Source: Rumen Radev – Wikipedia