Speaker Natalia Kiselova Requests Lifting of Parliamentary Immunities Amid Allegations of Forgery
In a significant move, Speaker of the 51st National Assembly, Natalia Kiselova, has formally requested the lifting of parliamentary immunities for three deputies: Lena Borislavova from PP-DB, and Jeyhan Ibryamov and Mario Rangelov from the DPS of Ahmed Dogan. This marks the final three of eight immunity requests submitted by the parliament to acting head prosecutor Borislav Sarafov.
Kiselova’s submission of three draft resolutions to the national Assembly (NA) office underscores the gravity of the allegations. According to the rules of the national Assembly, criminal prosecution against a deputy can only proceed with either their written consent or a parliamentary decision.
The request to lift Lena Borislavova’s immunity stems from allegations of forgery in documents related to Kiril Petkov’s resignation from the association “Let’s Preserve coral.” Petkov, co-chairman of “We Continue the Change,” had to leave the association abruptly in May 2021 to assume the role of caretaker economy minister.An examination revealed that the signatures submitted electronically by Borislavova to the Registry Agency were not authentic.Atanas Rusev, petkov’s former associate in the “Let’s Preserve Coral” initiative, filed a report with the State agency for National Security (DANS) two years after the incident. The delay in reporting has raised questions about the timing and motivations behind the allegations.
The cases of Jeyhan Ibryamov and Mario Rangelov remain under scrutiny, though specific details have yet to be disclosed. These requests highlight the ongoing tension within Bulgaria’s political landscape, where accountability and clarity are increasingly demanded by the public.
Key Points at a Glance
Table of Contents
| Deputy | Party | Allegation |
|————————|—————–|———————————————|
| Lena Borislavova | PP-DB | Forgery of signatures in official documents |
| Jeyhan Ibryamov | DPS | Details pending examination |
| Mario Rangelov | DPS | Details pending investigation |
The unfolding developments have sparked debates about the integrity of parliamentary processes and the role of immunity in shielding elected officials from legal accountability. As the National Assembly deliberates on these requests, the outcomes could set a precedent for future cases involving parliamentary immunity.
For more insights into Bulgaria’s political dynamics, explore our coverage of recent events in the National Assembly.
Stay informed and engaged as this story develops. Share your thoughts on the implications of lifting parliamentary immunities in the comments below.DPS-DPS Members Under Investigation for Vote Buying and Influence Peddling
In a shocking turn of events, two prominent members of the DPS-DPS party, Mario Rangelov and Jeyhan Ibryamov, are under investigation for serious allegations of corruption. the cases, which involve vote buying and influence peddling, have sent ripples through Bulgaria’s political landscape.
Mario Rangelov: Vote Buying Allegations
Mario Rangelov is currently being investigated for vote buying, a practice that undermines the democratic process. While details of the investigation remain scarce, the allegations suggest a deliberate attempt to manipulate electoral outcomes. This case highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring fair and transparent elections in Bulgaria.
Jeyhan Ibryamov: A Dual Scandal
Jeyhan Ibryamov, another DPS-DPS member, faces even more severe accusations.He is under investigation for influence peddling in two separate incidents.
The first allegation dates back to October 2019 in Sofia. Ibryamov is accused of requesting and accepting a gift of BGN 20,000 in exchange for influencing an official from the Ministry of Health. The bribe was allegedly tied to the issuance of a permit for a group of biocides to enter the market.
The second offence occurred in September and October 2024, also in Sofia. Ibryamov is accused of attempting to acquire BGN 400,000 by misleading St.Todorov. He allegedly promised to influence officials from the Ministry of Defense regarding public procurement decisions. While the attempt was left unfinished due to circumstances beyond Ibryamov’s control, the case underscores the pervasive issue of corruption in public institutions.
Immunity and Release
Despite the gravity of the allegations, Ibryamov was released from detention without remand. This decision was made possible due to his immunity as a deputy in the 51st National assembly. Critics argue that such immunity often shields politicians from accountability, allowing corruption to thrive unchecked.
Election Campaign Controversy
The timing of these investigations is notably noteworthy. Ibryamov was detained during the election campaign for demanding a bribe of BGN 200,000 and receiving BGN 100,000. This incident has raised questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the role of money in politics.
Key Points at a Glance
| Key Details | Details |
|——————————–|———————————————————————————|
| Mario Rangelov | Under investigation for vote buying. |
| jeyhan Ibryamov | Accused of influence peddling in two separate cases. |
| First Allegation | Accepted BGN 20,000 to influence a Ministry of Health official. |
| Second Allegation | Attempted to acquire BGN 400,000 by misleading St. Todorov. |
| Release from Detention | Released due to parliamentary immunity. |
| Election Campaign Scandal | Detained for demanding BGN 200,000 and receiving BGN 100,000. |
Calls for Accountability
These cases have sparked widespread outrage and calls for greater transparency in Bulgaria’s political system. Citizens and activists are demanding stricter measures to combat corruption and ensure that public officials are held accountable for their actions.
For the latest updates on this developing story, follow us on Google News Showcase.
Conclusion
The investigations into Mario Rangelov and Jeyhan Ibryamov serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Bulgaria’s democracy.As the cases unfold, they will undoubtedly shape the public’s perception of the political system and its commitment to justice. stay informed and engaged as we continue to monitor this critical issue.
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bulgaria’s Political Storm: Interview with Expert Dr. Eva Petrova on Parliamentarians’ Immunity Lifting and Corruption Allegations
introduction:
In the wake of Speaker Natalia Kiselova’s request to lift parliamentary immunities for three deputies amid serious allegations, we invited Dr. Eva Petrova, a renowned political scientist and corruption expert, to discuss the implications of these developments on Bulgaria’s political landscape and democratic integrity.
Interview:
Senior Editor (SE): Dr. petrova, thank you for joining us today to discuss these critical issues facing Bulgaria’s political system.
Dr.Eva Petrova (EP): Thank you for having me. I believe it’s crucial to address these matters openly.
SE: Let’s start with Speaker Kiselova’s recent request to lift the immunities of three deputies. Can you shed some light on the significance of this move?
EP: This is indeed a significant step. by submitting these draft resolutions, Kiselova is fostering a culture of accountability within the parliament. The allegations against Lena Borislavova, jeyhan Ibryamov, and Mario Rangelov are serious, and they deserve thorough inquiry.
SE: Speaking of the allegations, Lena Borislavova is accused of forgery. However, there’s a delay in reporting the incident. what’s your take on this?
EP: The delay in reporting does raise questions about the motivations behind the allegations. Though,we must not rush to judgment. It’s crucial to let the judicial process unfold. Perhaps there where reasons for the delay that will come to light during the investigation.
SE: Now, Ibryamov and Rangelov’s cases are still under scrutiny. What do you make of these developments?
EP: These cases highlight the urgent need for transparency and accountability in Bulgarian politics. Allegations of vote buying and influence peddling are severely damaging to our democracy. I hope the investigations will be thorough and unbiased.
SE: How does parliamentary immunity factor into all this? Should it be lifted more easily,or is there a balance to be struck?
EP: Parliamentary immunity serves an important purpose in protecting legislators from frivolous or politically motivated lawsuits. However, it should not serve as a shield for criminal behavior. There’s a balance to be struck, and we’re seeing efforts to find that balance in Bulgaria. The system requires that parliamentarians consent to prosecution or a parliamentary decision is made, and in this case, Kiselova is seeking that decision.
SE: Dr. Petrova, what would the lifting of these immunities mean for Bulgaria’s political climate and the broader fight against corruption?
EP: If the immunities are lifted and the cases proceed to trial, it would send a strong signal that no one is above the law, regardless of their political position. it could help restore some public trust in the political system and deter future wrongdoing. However, it’s just one step in the long process of combating corruption in Bulgaria. We need robust institutions, autonomous judiciary, and a committed citizenry to make a lasting difference.
SE: Thank you, Dr. Petrova, for your insightful commentary. We’ll continue to monitor these developments closely.
EP: You’re very welcome. It’s essential to keep the spotlight on these issues.
