After Rumen Radev’s 'Panorama' Interview: How Politicians Interpreted His Words?

Rumen Radev has given his first exclusive television interview since he resigned as President, confirming that he will enter parliamentary politics but will launch his own party only after the next elections.

Former President Rumen Radev Speaks on 'Panorama': We Will Form a Party After the Elections

Speaking to 'Panorama' on Bulgarian National Television in an interview with host Boyko Vassilev on January 30,, the former President said he would take part in the snap parliamentary elections using the registration of another party, as there is not enough time under Bulgarian law to establish a new one before the deadline.

He added that he is preparing his own political project, which he plans to announce only after the vote.

Rumen Radev, President of the Republic of Bulgaria (2017–2026):

“We will form a party after the elections, but at this stage that is not possible. The realistic timeframe for registering a party is at least three months. Do you really think that, in our judicial system — which reports to its shadowy patrons — there would not be an obstacle placed at the last moment? Bulgarian legislation clearly sets out the deadlines for the registration of parties and coalitions for elections. Rest assured, we will comply fully with those deadlines.”

Rumen Radev described his decision to step down from the presidency and enter active politics as one driven by the will of the people.

Rumen Radev, President of the Republic of Bulgaria (2017–2026), said:

“Not for a single minute have I used my position as President of the Republic of Bulgaria to create a party. For nine years I traveled across the country; people urged me to form a party. I refrained from doing so because I expected and hoped that the political class would meet the expectations of the public— but that did not happen.”

He also outlined his initial goals:

“I am not promising retribution, but I am promising rules — the same for everyone, and to be respected by everyone. My goal is for Bulgaria to develop as a free, democratic, European state. The main objective is the dismantling of this model of governance and the strengthening of statehood.”

Radev said he is ready to talk with any party willing to take part in dismantling the oligarchic model, stressing that he has no ambition for one-man rule:

“Let us see who enters the next Parliament and with what weight. But I am definitely not entering politics with ambitions for one-man rule. I do not have an obsession to be a savior and I have no messianic ideas. Democracy rests on dialogue and on difficult, complex compromises in the name of national goals. I will speak with anyone who wants Bulgaria to be secure, strong, and competitive — with anyone who wants justice and fairness.”

Radev also commented on the geopolitical situation. His interview on 'Panorama' sparked mixed political reactions. GERB–UDF representatives did not rule out talks with him on judicial reform.

Rumen Hristov, leader of the Union of Democratic Forces (UDF):

“We have always been open to talks and to reforms that could help improve the judicial system. I have criticised Rumen Radev for using the presidency for future party-political purposes. Now he has stepped onto the political field, which is only right. He is competing on equal terms with the others. GERB-UDF aims for top spot in the upcoming elections, Radev is not seen as a threat to our leading position. ”

'We Continue the Change' say they are ready for debate.

Metodi Baykushev of 'We Continue the Change' said:

“It remains to be seen where he will position himself. You know that we have had moments when Radev was supported by 'We Continue the Change,' and moments of disagreement. With his entry, the situation will now change — there will be a consolidation of the vote and a return of real political debate. The other two destroyed that debate.”

The Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP) said it does not see Radev as a threat, but as a potential partner.

Borislav Gutsanov of BSP–United Left, the outgoing Minister of Labour and Social Policy, said:

“Radev’s entry onto the political stage gives people hope that there will be a different project — one that gives them a reason to vote. BSP must achieve its own result, and we should seek partnership with Radev’s party. We share many common views, not contradictions.”

photos by BNT

In a Facebook post, the leader of 'Vazrazhdane', Kostadin Kostadinov, compares and analyses his party’s positions with those of Rumen Radev. He says that with every public appearance, Radev demonstrates his Euro-Atlantic views, which, according to him, helps 'Vazrazhdane' a lot.