Nadezhda Yordanova denies medical commission proposed pardon for Ognyan Atanasov

Former Justice Minister and MP Nadezhda Yordanova has clarified that the medical commission responsible for monitoring the health of prisoners did not propose a pardon for Ognyan Atanasov, a figure known as the “Petrich Escobar.”

Speaking at a briefing in the National Assembly, Yordanova stated that official documents confirm the medical commission made no such recommendation. She noted that the proposal for pardon was instead made by a specific pardon commission appointed by presidential decree by Rumen Radev.

Yordanova further addressed claims regarding Atanasov’s health, noting that the medical commission’s findings do not state he uses a wheelchair. She referenced video footage appearing to show Atanasov involved in a fight within prison corridors, contradicting claims of physical disability. Yordanova also questioned why the General Directorate “Execution of Punishments,” overseen by Maria Pavlova, did not notify the presidency of the pardon procedure 19 days prior to the event.