In the conditions of a fragmented political landscape and frequent elections, the topic of coalition government is once again coming to the fore. According to sociological data and the results of the last elections, Bulgaria will probably continue to be governed through coalitions.
In a pre-election interview on the program "Face to Face", Yordanka Fandakova from GERB commented on both the political situation and the challenges facing the government.
Regarding the political reality, Fandakova stated that the time of single-party cabinets and single-party government is long gone. According to her, GERB has experience in such an environment: "We at GERB have built a very stable culture of conducting dialogue and attracting support." She also gave an example from her work as mayor: “During my last two terms, I have worked without a majority in the Municipal Council, but I have managed to attract support and defend important issues for Sofia.“
Fandakova admitted that coalitions often require compromises. “Last time we were in a complex coalition. We had to make a lot of compromises, even more than we wanted to.“ In her words, this was necessary in the name of achieving “important strategic goals for Bulgaria - our entry into Schengen and the eurozone”.
She specified that these successes are the result of long-term efforts - “All this required enormous efforts for years, of course, by many governments.“ When asked whether the coalition is a weakness or an excuse, she answered categorically: “Governing in a coalition is very difficult.“ And she added: “If you govern independently, you can implement your program, but you have no one to justify yourself to if it doesn't work out.“
Fandakova emphasized that GERB does not look for excuses:
She also outlined the basic principles from which the party will not back down. “The first important topic is the country's foreign policy orientation - Bulgaria is a member of the EU and NATO and we will not back down from this position.“ The economy is also key - “Preserving the tax model - low taxes - is not up for discussion.“
Among the priorities, she also mentioned budget discipline, modernization of education and capital investments.
Fandakova also highlighted one of the weaknesses of the last government - the formation of the first budget. She explained the reasons: “There was a lack of agreement with partners – with unions and business, something we have always achieved.“
She was particularly harsh about the language in parliament: “Sometimes the language in parliament is unbearable. I was very ashamed.“ And she emphasized: “We did not go there to exchange insults, but to get the job done.“ According to her, dialogue is mandatory: “In politics, there can be no dialogue – even if you can't stand each other, you have to find a way to talk to each other.“
Fandakova also pointed out the main difference with “We continue the change – Democratic Bulgaria“ - the lack of results.
„Their marketing strategies are excellent, but very often they stop there”, said Fandakova.
On the topic of justice, she said: „The most important thing right now is to reach an agreement to replace the Supreme Judicial Council.“ And she stressed the need for broader changes. „Judicial reform does not end there”, said Fandakova.
Among the specific measures, she listed: „Stricter sanctions for road killers, pedophiles and people who commit animal abuse.“ But she warned: „Merely increasing penalties is not enough – it is important that justice be swift and effective.“
Regarding the fight against vote buying, she stated that everyone would support a fight against vote buying, as long as it was not one-sided, but meaningful and effective.