Vezhdi Rashidov of GERB-UDF elected Speaker of Bulgaria’s new Parliament

On the third day of voting during the first sitting of Bulgaria's new Parliament, on October 21, Vezhdi Rashidov, who is the most senior MP, was elected Speaker of the 48th National Assembly with 139 votes in favour, 73 against and 27 abstentions.

He was nominated by a majority of GERB-UDF, the Movement for Rights and Freedoms, BSP for Bulgaria and Bulgaria Ascending.

Yesterday, as the most senior MP, Vezhdi Rashidov was proposed for the post, but in an emotional speech, he refused to be nominated.

"In those years, having been a minister twice, deep in my soul, I wanted to dedicate myself to my grandchildren," Vezhdi Rashidov admitted after his election as the Speaker of the 48th National Assembly.

"Something interesting happened today - Mrs Ninova did it because she is a nationally responsible person - I told her I would accept only if there is a majority," Rashidov added.

"I will sacrifice whatever years I have left for the Bulgarian people," Rashidov said. "

Parliament is not a theatre of satire. We are here to work, debate and make the right decision.

He urged MPs to get down to work.

I promise to try to work with all of you, I promise to listen to what you tell me, to debate with you, he said.

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Image by Dessislava Kulelieva, BNT