Bulgaria’s Deputy Prime Minister for Fair Elections Resigns Amid Scrutiny
Sofia, Bulgaria – Stoil Tsitselkov has resigned from his position as Deputy Prime Minister for Fair Elections in Bulgaria, a role created specifically to oversee the upcoming April 19th parliamentary elections. Caretaker Prime Minister Andrey Gyurov has accepted the resignation and taken full responsibility for Tsitselkov’s appointment, acknowledging the controversy surrounding it.
Gyurov Accepts Responsibility
Addressing the public on Friday, February 20, 2026, Prime Minister Gyurov stated that the decision to appoint Tsitselkov was solely his and that he accepts full accountability for the choice. He emphasized that his decision was based on Tsitselkov’s professional expertise and experience in electoral matters. Novinite reported Gyurov’s comments during a briefing at the Council of Ministers.
Controversy Surrounding Tsitselkov
The resignation follows criticism and allegations against Tsitselkov, including past offenses involving marijuana, and alcohol. Gyurov, however, maintained that these criticisms were aimed at undermining the caretaker cabinet’s ability to ensure fair elections, rather than questioning Tsitselkov’s qualifications. Fakti.bg noted that Gyurov stated, “No one attacks him for his lack of experience, it is clear where the attack is aimed – it is aimed at the cabinet.”
Position to Remain Within Cabinet
Despite Tsitselkov’s departure, the position of Deputy Prime Minister for Fair Elections will not be eliminated. Gyurov indicated that a replacement has not yet been named, but the role will continue to oversee the electoral process. Novinite reported that Gyurov did not expect a “vote of confidence or 100 days” for Tsitselkov to demonstrate his capabilities.
Background: Caretaker Government and Upcoming Elections
Gyurov leads Bulgaria’s caretaker government following the resignation of the previous administration. The caretaker government’s primary responsibility is to prepare for parliamentary elections scheduled for April 19th. Devdiscourse highlights that Tsitselkov’s appointment as minister for fair elections was a unique move, representing the first such position in Bulgarian government.
Joint Decision to Resign
According to Fakti.bg, after discussions, Gyurov and Tsitselkov jointly determined that resignation was the appropriate course of action to safeguard the integrity of the vote and maintain public trust in the government’s commitment to fair elections.