Opposition parties in Bulgaria have sharply criticized proposed amendments to the National Assembly’s rules of procedure, accusing the ruling “Progressive Bulgaria” (PB) majority of weakening parliamentary oversight and concentrating power in a way they describe as authoritarian and “communist-style parliamentarism.”
The draft changes, which are set for debate and a vote by a temporary committee, were defended by PB as a modernization of parliamentary work. However, opposition MPs from “We Continue the Change” (PP) and “Democratic Bulgaria” (DB) argue the proposals significantly restrict debate, transparency, and the ability of minority groups to hold the government accountable.
Stoyu Stoev of “We Continue the Change” said the governing majority is reshaping the institution in a way that undermines democratic standards. “Progressive Bulgaria is bringing back parliamentarism, but in a communist way,” he said, calling the package of changes “scandalous.”
One of the most contested provisions allows the Speaker of Parliament to participate in debates and then continue to preside over the same session, a move critics say compromises neutrality. Under the proposals, the Speaker would effectively act as both participant and arbiter during proceedings.
