Protests Continue in Bulgaria Following Dimitar Malinov Murder, Focus Shifts to Official Reinstatement
Sofia, Bulgaria – Protests are continuing in Bulgaria following the 2023 murder of 24-year-old Dimitar Malinov from Tsalapitsa, with recent demonstrations centering on the controversial reinstatement of a police director linked to the initial investigation. The mother of the murdered young man has called for renewed public demonstrations, escalating pressure on the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Mother Calls for Protest in Sofia
Atanaska Bakalova, the mother of Dimitar Malinov, has urged citizens to protest in front of the Ministry of Internal Affairs in Sofia. This call comes after she reported that many individuals were prevented from reaching a previous protest in Plovdiv, alleging they were stopped or turned away by authorities. Bakalova stated, “It will not stop us. It will not scare us. When a mother seeks the truth about her child’s murder, she will not give up given that of obstacles.”
Demand for Kostadinov’s Removal
The family’s primary demand remains the removal of Vasil Kostadinov from his position within the Ministry of Internal Affairs. They are also seeking an investigation into how Kostadinov’s wife obtained non-public information related to the investigation into her son’s murder. Bakalova has requested that the prosecutor’s office verify the source of this leaked information.
Protests in Plovdiv and Road Blockades
Discontent over Kostadinov’s reappointment as director of the Directorate of Internal Affairs in Plovdiv has already sparked protests in the city. Citizens previously blocked a ring road in Plovdiv to express their opposition and demand justice in the Malinov case. Protesters questioned the absence of police support during the initial search for Malinov, contrasting it with their current presence in controlling demonstrations.
Background: The Malinov Case and Previous Convictions
Rangel Bizyurev was sentenced to 15 years in prison on a first instance conviction for the murder of Dimitar Malinov. Twins Borislav and Valentin Dinkovi received four-year sentences each for aiding Bizyurev in evading capture after the murder. The case is currently moving to a second instance appeal.
Previous Police Official Sues Ministry
In a related development, a police officer, Damyan Kapov, who was dismissed following the murder investigation, has successfully sued the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Kapov, along with the former head of the Stamboliyski regional police department, were initially dismissed for discrediting the police force. While the court overturned their initial dismissal, Kapov pursued further legal action and was awarded 7,000 leva in damages.
Ministerial Response
Minister Dechev has stated that they will review the arguments presented by the protesters and create a decision regarding Kostadinov’s position. Non-governmental organizations have also called for Kostadinov’s removal.