Bulgarians vote in eighth parliamentary election amid political turmoil

Bulgarians have begun voting in their eighth parliamentary election in five years, following mass protests that led to the downfall of the Conservative-led government in December. Polling stations opened at 7am local time and are set to close at 1700 GMT. This election is particularly significant as it could pave the way for a left-leaning, pro-Russian government led by former president Rumen Radev.

Radev, who resigned from his ceremonial presidency in January to pursue the role of prime minister, has been vocal about his desire to eliminate the country’s "oligarchic governance model" and has supported anti-corruption protests. He leads the newly formed centre-left grouping, Progressive Bulgaria, which is projected to receive around 35 percent of the vote according to pre-election polls. This election follows a backdrop of political instability, with Bulgaria experiencing fragmented parliaments and weak governments since 2021, none of which have lasted more than a year due to protests and political maneuvering.

The outcome of this election could shift Bulgaria's foreign policy direction, especially in relation to Russia. Radev's advocacy for renewing ties with Russia and his criticism of military aid to Ukraine contrast sharply with the recent rejection of authoritarianism in neighboring Hungary. This dynamic places Radev in a position to potentially reshape Bulgaria's political landscape and its international alliances.

What to watch: The formation of the new government and Radev's potential policies regarding Russia and Ukraine will be crucial in the coming weeks.