Bulgaria holds early parliamentary elections amid political instability

Bulgaria has launched voting in early parliamentary elections for the 52nd National Assembly, marking the country’s eighth election in five years. Polling stations opened at 07:00 local time across more than 12,000 locations nationwide.

A total of 24 political formations are competing, including 14 parties and 10 coalitions. The coalition “Progressive Bulgaria,” associated with former president Rumen Radev, is presented as a leading contender, according to Russian media.

In addition, at least four other political forces have realistic chances of entering the new parliament, including “Citizens for European Development of Bulgaria” (GERB) and the “Movement for Rights and Freedoms” (DPS). The “Revival” party is also considered a potential parliamentary entrant, while the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP) is expected to surpass the 4% electoral threshold.

A key feature of the campaign is the use of specialized voting machines at most polling stations. Abroad, 493 polling stations have been opened across 55 countries. Bulgarians in New Zealand were the first to vote, with polling stations there opening on the evening of April 18.

Around 6.5 million citizens are eligible to vote, although turnout is expected to be approximately 3.3 million voters. A total of 4,786 candidates are competing for 240 parliamentary seats.

The Central Election Commission stated that all preparations for the elections have been completed and the process is being conducted in line with international standards. Since April 18, all polling stations have been under police protection.

The first unofficial results are expected at 20:00, once polling stations close.

By Jeyhun Aghazada