GERB expands cadre pool and eyes Burgas mayor Dimitar Nikolov for presidency

GERB leader Boiko Borisov announced that the party’s “New Minds” Academy has trained more than 200 new political cadres, with further sessions planned ahead of local elections. He said the initiative creates a blend of experienced officials and newcomers and that the party is preparing a “shadow government” to showcase its programme and potential ministers.

At the same time, speculation is growing that Burgas mayor Dimitar Nikolov could become GERB’s presidential candidate. Reports cite a recent meeting between Borisov and Nikolov, interpreting it as a strategic move to tap the mayor’s regional popularity ahead of the autumn election. Party insiders see Nikolov as a strong provincial figure who could broaden GERB’s support base, while other factions discuss alternative ticket options.