Bulgaria’s Ad Hoc Prosecutor Dismisses Report Against Acting Chief Prosecutor
Sofia, Bulgaria – Anton Urumov, the newly appointed ad hoc prosecutor tasked with investigating Bulgaria’s Chief Prosecutor and his deputies, has rejected a whistleblower report alleging criminal activity by Acting Chief Prosecutor Borislav Sarafov. Urumov’s initial response, described as a “notification letter” to the report’s sender, indicates he found no new evidence to warrant an investigation.
Report Alleges Crimes Committed by Sarafov
The report in question accuses Sarafov of committing crimes in the line of duty and crimes against justice. However, Urumov determined that the allegations mirrored those previously examined by Daniela Taleva, the former ad hoc prosecutor, who likewise dismissed the claims following review by two court instances. Although the initial report was filed in August 2025, and a subsequent one in January 2026, Urumov stated the latter contained no new information.
Concerns Over Sarafov’s Continued Tenure
The report further contends that Sarafov’s actions after September 18, 2025, constitute criminal offenses, particularly in light of a General Assembly of the Criminal Collegium of the Supreme Court of Cassation’s determination that his term as Acting Chief Prosecutor should have ended on July 21, 2025. According to the Judiciary Act, the Acting Prosecutor General should be replaced every six months. Sarafov has held the position since June 2023, but the Supreme Judicial Council has maintained that the six-month rule does not apply to him, a decision recently upheld despite a proposal from Acting Minister of Justice Andrey Yankulov to appoint a replacement.
Allegations of Undue Influence and Control
The whistleblower report alleges that Sarafov has been using his position to exert undue influence over judges, potentially compromising the independence of the judiciary. Specific examples cited include a statement released by the prosecutor’s office on October 3, criticizing the Supreme Court of Justice for allegedly attempting to achieve illegitimate goals, and a request made by Sarafov on October 13 to recuse Judge Miroslava Todorova from a case involving him. Sarafov reportedly sought to exclude members of the Union of Judges in Bulgaria from participating in the selection of a new ad hoc prosecutor in November.
Requests for Investigation into Judge Networks
The report urges Urumov to request information from Sarafov regarding files pertaining to judges, including details on special intelligence measures used in operational developments, and whether any of those judges are on the list of potential candidates for the next ad hoc prosecutor. It specifically requests information related to the networks of influence associated with Petyo Petrov – known as “The Euro” – and Martin Bojanov – “The Notary,” alleging that Sarafov uses these proceedings to control judges and prosecutors. The report also suggests Urumov recuse himself if he appears in any of these files, a claim Urumov has dismissed, stating there are no grounds for withdrawal.
Appeal Filed
Urumov’s “notification letter” has been appealed before the Sofia City Court.
Sources: Bulgarian Telegraph Agency, Archy Newsy