Kardzhali, Bulgaria – Allegations of political interference in law enforcement are surfacing in Bulgaria, with claims that former Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev instructed the Chief Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Georgi Kandev, to order the arrests of several mayors in the Kardzhali Province. The accusations, reported initially by 24rodopi.com, arrive as Demerdzhiev campaigns as the lead candidate for the “Progressive Bulgaria” party in the region.
The reported directive allegedly targets the mayors of Kardzhali, Erol Myumyun; Dzhebel, Nedzhi Ali; and Chernoochene, Ayndzhan Ahmed. According to reports, the alleged order was issued following a meeting between Demerdzhiev and Kandev on March 17, 2026, just one day after Demerdzhiev formally registered as a candidate in Kardzhali. The timing of the alleged instruction has fueled speculation about a politically motivated attempt to influence the upcoming elections.
Allegations of Political Motivation
Sources suggest that Demerdzhiev allegedly expressed a desire to see the three mayors “removed,” using forceful language during the meeting with Kandev. The claims have sparked concerns about the potential for abuse of power and the politicization of law enforcement. The accusations come amid a heated election season, raising questions about whether the alleged actions are intended to intimidate political opponents and sway voters.
The reports further allege that Demerdzhiev’s actions are linked to efforts to bolster support for President Rumen Radev. Demerdzhiev, a lawyer from Plovdiv, was reportedly positioned as a candidate in Kardzhali at Radev’s behest, leading to accusations that he is acting as an agent for the President’s political interests. This alleged connection has intensified scrutiny of the claims and raised questions about the extent of presidential involvement.
Claims of Targeting Opposition Supporters
Beyond the targeting of the three mayors, allegations have emerged that Demerdzhiev also instructed authorities to detain activists associated with the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (DPS) party, under the pretext of vote buying. These claims suggest a broader effort to suppress opposition support and create an environment of fear ahead of the elections. The alleged strategy aims to discourage DPS voters from participating in the electoral process, potentially benefiting Demerdzhiev and his party.
TrafficNews.bg reported on March 18, 2026, that Demerdzhiev is attempting to enter parliament through repressive measures, specifically targeting the mayors of three municipalities in the Rhodope region. TrafficNews.bg details the allegations of Demerdzhiev’s attempts to influence the election outcome through these actions.
Demerdzhiev’s Background and Political Affiliation
Ivan Demerdzhiev served as Bulgaria’s Interior Minister previously, and his transition to a parliamentary candidate has drawn attention. His current candidacy with “Progressive Bulgaria” places him in a competitive electoral landscape. The allegations of using his former position to influence law enforcement raise serious ethical concerns and could have significant repercussions for his political career.
The claims against Demerdzhiev are particularly sensitive given the historical context of political interference in Bulgaria’s law enforcement agencies. Concerns about corruption and the lack of independence within the judiciary have been longstanding issues in the country, and these allegations risk exacerbating those concerns.
Official Response and Ongoing Investigation
As of March 18, 2026, neither the Ministry of Interior nor Ivan Demerdzhiev have issued an official response to the allegations. Georgi Kandev, the Chief Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, has not publicly commented on the reported instructions. The lack of an immediate response has fueled speculation and intensified calls for a thorough investigation.
Blitz.bg reported on March 18, 2026, that Demerdzhiev is requesting arrests in the Kardzhali region. Blitz.bg details the initial reports of the alleged directive to Kandev.
Epicenter.bg also covered the story on March 18, 2026, highlighting the allegations of Demerdzhiev ordering arrests of mayors in Kardzhali. Epicenter.bg provides further details on the reported meeting between Demerdzhiev and Kandev.
The State Prosecutor’s Office has not yet announced whether it will launch an investigation into the allegations. However, pressure is mounting from opposition parties and civil society organizations for a swift and impartial inquiry. The outcome of any investigation could have significant implications for the integrity of the upcoming elections and the future of Bulgarian politics.
Key Takeaways
- Former Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev is accused of instructing law enforcement to arrest three mayors in Kardzhali Province.
- The allegations suggest a politically motivated attempt to influence the upcoming elections.
- Claims have also surfaced that Demerdzhiev ordered the detention of DPS activists under the pretext of vote buying.
- Neither Demerdzhiev nor the Ministry of Interior have issued an official response to the allegations as of March 18, 2026.
The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming days. The focus will be on whether an official investigation is launched and whether any evidence emerges to support or refute the serious allegations leveled against Demerdzhiev. The unfolding events underscore the importance of maintaining the independence of law enforcement and ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process in Bulgaria.
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