Boyko Borisov Labels President Radev the New Orbán

Boyko Borissov, leader of the GERB party, has launched a sharp political attack against former Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, accusing him of attempting to replicate the political model of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. On April 15, 2026, Borissov claimed that Radev is engaging in secret diplomatic dealings with Hungary and is utilizing oligarchic circles to support his new political project.

The accusations follow Radev’s transition into party politics after his resignation from the presidency in early 2026. Radev, who served as president from January 22, 2017, until January 23, 2026, assumed the leadership of the Progressive Bulgaria party on March 2, 2026.

Allegations of the ‘Hungarian Model’

Speaking to journalists, Borissov asserted that Radev’s new political formation does not offer genuine change for the country. He specifically accused the former head of state of maintaining backstage connections with Hungary and attempting to copy the governance style of Viktor Orbán. Borissov further alleged that Radev’s project relies on oligarchic circles, contrasting this with the structure of the GERB-SDS alliance.

View this post on Instagram about Borissov, Radev

These comments are part of a broader conflict between the two figures that has escalated since Radev left office. Borissov has previously criticized Radev for acting more like a party leader than a president during his tenure, suggesting that his rhetoric mirrored that of parties such as MECH and Greatness.

Economic and Energy Security Concerns

Beyond the ideological clash, Borissov has raised concerns regarding Bulgaria’s energy security and financial obligations. He highlighted the impact of the Botas contract and expressed concern over delayed negotiations for liquefied natural gas (LNG). Borissov warned that Bulgaria risks falling behind on essential long-term contracts with Turkey.

Borissov pointed out the financial burden of prior agreements, noting that millions of leva are sent to Turkey daily. He questioned which public sectors, specifically mentioning doctors, teachers, or the military, would be forced to bear these costs. He also noted the critical deadline of January 1, when Russian piped and liquefied gas would stop flowing to Europe.

Political Rivalry and Personal Conflict

The relationship between the two politicians has been marked by personal insults and mutual accusations. In previous exchanges, Rumen Radev referred to Borissov as service staff and a clown of Delyan Peevski. In response, Borissov condemned the tone of the president, stating that a head of state should not speak in such a manner and describing Radev as a party leader with bad upbringing.

Borissov has also criticized Radev for focusing on government criticism without proposing viable solutions. He recently questioned the momentum of Radev’s political influence, asking Where is the wave? and suggesting that the political balloon surrounding the former president is deflating daily.

Current Political Landscape

The current political environment in Bulgaria is characterized by preparations for upcoming elections and challenges in parliamentary stability. Borissov has previously addressed the failure of government-supporting parties to secure a quorum in parliament for three consecutive days, pledging to ensure the return of deputies from foreign delegations to resolve the issue.

Simultaneously, Prime Minister Andrey Gurov has pledged tougher action against vote-buying and election manipulation as the country moves toward the 52nd National Assembly elections. This occurs amid Borissov’s assertions that his party does not have the same oligarchs or donors as other progressive parties.

Borissov has also expressed opposition to political parties that he claims would force future generations to pay for foreign debts, stating he does not want a party that dooms children and young people to pay foreign debts.