Bulgaria investigates corruption allegations in fuel exports and public procurement

Bulgarian political tensions have escalated following allegations of corruption and conflicts of interest involving government officials and members of parliament. The political party ‘We Continue the Change’ has filed a signal with the Anti-Corruption Commission against MP Slavi Vasilev of ‘Progressive Bulgaria’. The complaint alleges a conflict of interest regarding Vasilev’s vote to lift a ban on diesel and aviation fuel exports, noting that he owns ‘East Petroleum’ EOOD, a company involved in wholesale and retail petroleum trading.

Separately, Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev announced that the Ministry of Interior has submitted materials to the prosecutor's office regarding irregularities in public procurement for road safety barriers (guardrails). Demerdzhiev stated that four companies, some linked to political officials, have secured over 96% of these contracts. The investigation aims to determine if public funds were misused and if the installed equipment meets required safety standards.

The National Assembly is expected to hear from Minister Demerdzhiev regarding these procurement practices and allegations concerning the financing of flights for Delyan Peevski. Opposition parties have also raised questions regarding the Minister's own business interests and property holdings.