A National Security Service guard shoved journalist Sonya Koltuklieva to the ground outside a parliamentary gathering, sparking an immediate military prosecution probe and widespread political fallout across Sofia. The incident unfolded when Koltuklieva approached a convoy vehicle carrying National Assembly Chair Mihaela Dotsova and attempted to ask a question.
Security footage broadcast by Information Agency PIK captured the physical altercation on the sidewalk. As Koltuklieva opened the car door, Dotsova pulled the door inward while the security operative forcefully pushed the journalist backward. Koltuklieva fell flat on her back before the vehicle departed the scene.
Military Prosecutor Examines Guard Actions as NSO Orders Internal Inquiry
The National Security Service (NSO) announced an immediate and thorough review of the security personnel involved in the confrontation. The agency reviewed circulating video footage and notified the competent Military Prosecutor’s Office. Investigators examined the guard at the military prosecution facility to establish whether his use of force exceeded operational necessity. NSO leadership stated that strictest measures would apply if personnel actions violated protocol.
Public reaction fractured sharply along political lines following the event. Parliamentary groups outside the ruling party “Progressive Bulgaria” condemned the security tactics. GERB-SДС demanded an independent investigation. Movement for Rights and Freedoms leader Delyan Peевски characterized the incident as the ugliest face of power, calling for the removal of Dotsova from her post.
Parliamentary Chair Mihaela Dotsova Expresses Regret After Personal Meeting
National Assembly Chair Mihaela Dotsova met directly with Sonya Koltuklieva outside the Military Prosecutor’s Office to express her personal remorse. Dotsova initially attempted to visit Koltuklieva at the Military Medical Academy emergency ward, but the journalist had already departed. Speaking to reporters outside the prosecution building, Dotsova condemned the guard’s conduct.
“As a human being and as a woman, I express my deepest regret for what happened, because what happened is completely unacceptable,” Dotsova stated. She emphasized that NSO guards operate under independent protocols and that she lacks the authority to dictate tactical responses. Kostadin Kostadinov criticized the handling of the situation and demanded the resignation of President Iliana Iotova.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Parliamentary Security Incident
What triggered the physical confrontation between the security guard and Sonya Koltuklieva?
The altercation began when Koltuklieva approached the official vehicle carrying National Assembly Chair Mihaela Dotsova, opened the door, and began filming and questioning officials about a parliamentary session.
What injuries or medical attention resulted from the push?
The force of the push caused Koltuklieva to fall flat on her back onto the sidewalk, requiring an emergency medical response and evaluation at the Military Medical Academy before she left to visit the Military Prosecutor’s Office.
What formal investigations are currently underway regarding the NSO guard?
NSO leadership initiated an internal review of the security team’s actions after examining public video footage, while the Military Prosecutor’s Office summoned the involved guard to give formal testimony.
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