Sofia, Bulgaria – Bulgaria is preparing for a potentially pivotal election on April 19th, as former President Rumen Radev is widely expected to enter the political arena. This move comes after a period of prolonged political instability, with the country having held eight parliamentary elections since 2021. The recent resignation of Radev has paved the way for Iliyana Yotova, Bulgaria’s first female president, to assume the office, setting the stage for a new chapter in Bulgarian politics.
The upcoming elections offer a potential end to the country’s ongoing political turmoil. Even as Radev has not formally announced his candidacy, it is largely anticipated, and confirmation quickly followed his departure from the presidency. Details of his political platform remain closely guarded, but analysts are already speculating about the direction he might take.
Radev, initially elected as an independent in 2016 with the support of the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP), gradually established himself as a prominent political figure. He was known more for his strong personality – though some analysts describe him as lacking charisma – than for clearly defined political positions, occasionally displaying Euroskepticism and perceived closeness to Moscow. A split with the BSP, stemming from disagreements with former party leader Kornelija Ninova, positioned him as a non-partisan figure, increasing his popularity among Bulgarian voters.
Polls Indicate Strong Support for Radev
Early polling data suggests a potential landslide victory for a party led by Radev, with support ranging from 25% to 32%. These results too indicate a significant shift in the political landscape, with the left and far-right wings of Bulgarian politics appearing to be in decline. The Bulgarian Socialist Party is currently polling below 3%, while the far-right Vazrazhdane party is projected to receive between 4% and 5% of the vote. Both parties are considered strongholds of pro-Russian sentiment within the country, according to reports from the Associated Press.
The lack of explicit statements from Radev regarding his political orientation has fueled speculation. Some commentators have drawn parallels to Viktor Orbán of Hungary, citing Radev’s perceived illiberal views and ties to Russia. But, others suggest he may more closely emulate Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, adopting a left-leaning economic agenda combined with socially conservative positions, potentially absorbing support from both socialists and the far-right.
Potential Coalition Scenarios
While the polling numbers offer a glimpse into the potential outcome, the low voter turnout in recent Bulgarian elections – around 30% – introduces a degree of uncertainty. An increase in voter participation following Radev’s entry into the race could significantly alter the results. Nevertheless, his strong position has sparked discussions about potential governing coalitions. All eyes are currently on the GERB party, led by the long-serving former Prime Minister Bojko Borisov.
A collaboration between Radev and Borisov, despite their differing foreign policy stances, is considered a possibility due to shared populist and potentially authoritarian tendencies. Borisov is a staunch supporter of the Atlantic alliance, a position that has often been overlooked by the European Union despite numerous judicial scandals surrounding him. A coalition with the liberal Continuiamo il Cambiamento – Bulgaria Democratica is also a possibility, though significant ideological differences would need to be overcome, aside from a shared rejection of mainstream politics. A “red-brown” coalition, mirroring the Slovak model, is less likely to secure enough seats to govern, given the projected collapse of the left and far-right.
Iliyana Yotova officially became Bulgaria’s president on January 23, 2026, following the acceptance of Rumen Radev’s resignation by the Constitutional Court, as reported by SeeNews. Yotova is the first woman to hold the office, having previously served as Vice President alongside Radev since 2017. She did not need to retake the oath of office, having already sworn in as vice president in 2021.
As Bulgaria approaches the April 19th elections, the political landscape remains fluid. The coming weeks will be crucial as Radev unveils his platform and campaigns for support. The outcome of this election could determine whether Bulgaria can finally break free from its cycle of political instability and chart a new course for its future.
Stay tuned to Archyde.com for further updates on the Bulgarian elections and the evolving political situation.
