Bulgarian Parliament Endorses New Coalition Government
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Synopsis
On January 16, 2024, the Bulgarian National Assembly approved a coalition government led by Rosen Zhelyazkov of GERB-UDF, marking a significant political shift after months of instability. The new government emphasizes enhancing quality of life through healthcare, education, and labor market improvements.
Key Takeaways
- New government led by Rosen Zhelyazkov.
- Supported by 125 out of 240 legislators.
- Main goals include improving healthcare and education.
- Focus on sustainable public finances.
- Previous elections failed to produce a government.
Sofia, Jan 16 (NationPress) The Bulgarian National Assembly has officially sanctioned a coalition government under the leadership of Rosen Zhelyazkov, the nominee from GERB-UDF, over two months post the parliamentary elections.
This new administration takes the place of the caretaker cabinet headed by Dimitar Glavchev, receiving support from 125 out of 240 legislators.
Zhelyazkov, born in 1968 and holding a master of laws, has previously held positions as Speaker of the National Assembly, Minister of Transport and Communications, and Secretary General of the Council of Ministers.
During his presentation to the plenary assembly, Zhelyazkov remarked that Bulgaria has been mired in political turmoil for an extended period. He expressed his appreciation for the coalition partners who collaborated with his political faction to set aside ideological and political disparities.
According to Zhelyazkov, the primary goals of his government will be to enhance citizens' quality of life by focusing on healthcare, education, and labor market development, while also ensuring the rule of law and fortifying institutions.
Additional objectives include maintaining sustainable public finances, managing public investments effectively, and fostering a continuous rise in investment for research and development, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
Tomislav Donchev has been appointed as the deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Innovation and Growth, alongside two other deputy Prime Ministers, with a total of seventeen ministers selected.
Zhelyazkov was granted the exploratory mandate by Bulgarian President Rumen Radev.
The coalition further comprises the parliamentary factions of the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP)-United Left and There Is Such People, with Zhelyazkov indicating earlier that it would receive backing from Democracy, Rights and Freedoms - DRF when presented to the National Assembly, the country's parliament.
While conferring the mandate to Zhelyazkov, Radev noted that Bulgarians have been awaiting solutions to the political crisis for an extended period. “Thus, I have allotted ample time for your party and potential allies to explore various options and arrive at a viable formula,” stated Radev.
According to Zhelyazkov, GERB-UDF and its associates engaged in rigorous and responsible negotiations, making significant efforts to reach the essential compromises and agreements for responsible governance of the nation.
Bulgaria conducted a snap parliamentary election on October 27, 2024, following the unsuccessful attempt to form a new government after the elections in June 2024.
