Bulgarian Justice Minister Nikolay Naydenov challenges decision on Sofia prosecutor Emilija Rusinova

Justice Minister Nikolay Naydenov said he will likely appeal the Prosecutor’s College of the Supreme Judicial Council’s refusal to temporarily suspend Sofia city prosecutor Emilija Rusinova. He indicated he will await the detailed reasons for the decision before deciding on legal action.

Naydenov criticised the status quo in the judiciary, stating “Obviously the status quo continues to operate in the familiar way.” He highlighted that the Sofia city prosecutor’s office handles highly sensitive investigations, including the so‑called “Hemusgate” case concerning alleged misappropriation of funds in the Hemus highway construction. The minister suggested that one of the investigations tied to Rusinova may be related to this scandal.

The dispute revolves around whether Rusinova should be removed while disciplinary proceedings continue, with the Prosecutor’s College maintaining she can still lead the office. Naydenov expressed surprise that the college did not show “reasonable judgment” and signalled possible further legal challenges.