Bulgarian Politics Marked by Disputes and Delayed Nuclear Plant Hearing
Bulgarian politics are currently experiencing heightened tensions, with disputes erupting between political factions and a crucial hearing regarding the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) being postponed. These developments come amidst ongoing investigations and accusations of political interference.
Political Clash Between ITN and PP-DB
A recent parliamentary session was dominated by calls for the resignation of an official from the office, initiated by Toshko Yordanov, deputy chairman of ITN (There Is Such a People). The request stemmed from concerns over dismissals within regional directorates of the Ministry of the Interior, particularly those involved in the “Petrohan” case and an incident near Okolchitsa.
Yavor Bozhankov, representing the PP-DB (We Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria) coalition, countered these accusations, alleging that ITN was politicizing the case and exploiting the memory of those who died. He further asserted that ITN had previously obstructed efforts to uncover the truth surrounding the “Petrohan” case.
Kozloduy NPP Hearing Postponed
The scheduled hearing to discuss the condition and repairs at the Kozloduy NPP has been delayed. Plant management cited planned activities as the reason for their inability to attend, while the relevant ministry indicated that the hearing would be unproductive without their participation. Parliament speaker Raya Nazaryan announced the hearing would be rescheduled for next week.
Concerns Over Water Quality and Allegations of Political Interference
Krasimira Katincharova, representing Velichie, raised concerns about the lack of clean water in the village of Balanovo, Dupnitsa, where residents have reportedly been without access for 15 years. She announced a signature-gathering campaign to declare a state of emergency.
Further escalating tensions, Yordanov accused Bozhankov of having connections to the “Petrohan” case and alleged that the current government was out of control. He also questioned the accuracy of a donation statement made by Sofia Mayor Vasil Terziev regarding Ivaylo Ivanov, who died in the “Petrohan” hut.
Allegations of Interference in Investigations
ITN claims that investigators involved in the “Petrohan” case have been removed from their positions following statements by Minister Dechev that he would not dismiss them. Specifically, Plamen Tomov (head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs in Montana), Tihomir Tsenov (from the ODMVR-Sofia), and Boyan Raev (from GDBOP) were reportedly dismissed. Chief Commissioner Zahari Vaskov, who reported a meeting between Emil Dechev and Papalezov, was also removed. ITN attributes the responsibility for these actions to President Iliana Yotova.
Bulgaria’s Nuclear Power Project Advances with US and Korean Collaboration
Separately, Bulgaria has begun construction of two new nuclear reactors using US technology, marking a significant step in the country’s energy strategy. A contract worth nearly $350 million was signed between the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant and a consortium comprising US company Westinghouse and South Korea’s Hyundai [Euractiv]. The reactors will utilize Westinghouse’s AR-1000 technology, with construction led by Hyundai. Electricity generation from the first reactor is expected by 2034, with the project estimated to cost over $14 billion. Financing is anticipated from the US Exim Bank and South Korean institutions [Euractiv].
Yavor Bozhankov is a Bulgarian politician who has been a member of the National Assembly since 2017. He was previously affiliated with BSP for Bulgaria and DSB, and currently belongs to the We Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria coalition [Wikipedia].