Rumen Radev Launches “Progressive Bulgaria” Coalition, Eyes April 19 Election
Sofia, Bulgaria – Former Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has officially registered the “Progressive Bulgaria” coalition to contest the upcoming snap parliamentary elections on April 19, 2026. The coalition, featuring Radev as a leading figure, aims to address corruption and bolster the Bulgarian economy, according to statements made during a rally in Yambol on March 16, 2026.
Focus on Anti-Corruption and Justice
Radev has positioned “Progressive Bulgaria” as a direct response to public dissatisfaction with corruption and the perceived failures of previous governments. He has pledged to prioritize the dismantling of what he calls an “oligarchic corruption model.” Specifically, the coalition intends to focus on:
- Ousting the oligarchy from power
- Revising the composition of the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC)
- Electing a new Chief Prosecutor
- Reviewing key public procurements
- Investigating the assets of Bulgarian citizens held abroad
Radev has called for investigations into the wealth of individuals who have held state salaries but possess disproportionately large assets, questioning the source of their income.
Economic Growth and Social Development
Beyond tackling corruption, “Progressive Bulgaria” aims to stimulate economic growth as a foundation for social development. Radev has indicated the coalition will propose measures to accelerate economic growth, support Bulgarian businesses, and attract foreign investment. He emphasized that a strong economy is essential for improving education, healthcare, and social services.
Key Candidates and Coalition Structure
The coalition includes three formations: Political Movement Social Democrats, the Social Democratic Party, and the Our People Movement. Galab Donev, a former caretaker prime minister, and Dimitar Stoyanov, an ex-defense minister, are formally co-leading the coalition alongside Radev.
Top-of-list candidates announced by the coalition include:
- Rumen Radev: Burgas and Sofia constituencies
- Ivan Demerdzhiev: Kardzhali
- Ivan Shishkov: Vratsa
- Yavor Gechev: Kyustendil
- Ivet Goranova: Lovech
- Vladimir Nikolov: Plovdiv
- Petar Stoychev: Smolyan
- Galab Donev: Pazardzhik
- Petar Vitanov: Pernik
- Rositsa Karamfilova: Blagoevgrad
Rositsa Karamfilova, the candidate for Blagoevgrad, brings experience as a former Minister of Environment and Water and currently serves as Executive Director of the Executive Environment Agency.
Political Landscape and Election Outlook
The April 19 election marks Bulgaria’s eighth parliamentary election in five years, reflecting a period of political instability. Recent polls suggest “Progressive Bulgaria” is currently leading, with a 30.9% share of votes, significantly ahead of the GERB party (19.3%) and the We Continue the Change and Democratic Bulgaria alliance (12.2%). However, the coalition has yet to release a formal manifesto.
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