Bulgarian Right Wing Accuses Cabinet of Reform Avoidance

Martin Dimitrov leader of the right-wing Union of Democratic Forces and Ivan Kostov leader of Democrats for Strong Bulgaria (L) gave a joint press conference Tuesday. Photo by BGNES

Bulgaria's right-wing Blue Coalition would not back the 2011 budget bill and wants ministerial resignations, the formation announced Tuesday.

The Chairs of the two parties forming the Coalition – Martin Dimitrov for the Union of Democratic Forces (UDF) and Ivan Kostov for Democrats for Strong Bulgaria (DSB) gave a joint press conference and issued a joint statement, hardening their criticism towards the cabinet of the ruling, center-right Citizens for European Development of Bulgaria (GERB) party.

Kostov pointed out there is nothing in place currently but a 2011 State budget bill while budgets for social insurance and health insurance are missing. Dimitrov explained it has become obvious the cabinet is avoiding reforms, putting the country's financial stability in danger.

An analysis prepared by UDF experts shows the overdue payments to municipalities now amount to BGN 200 M with many City and Town Halls sending their employees on unpaid leave over the lack of funds for salaries.

Dimitrov voiced his opposition to the idea to up social security payments which will transfer the burden to small businesses and the self-employed while Kostov declared he was against investing retirement funds, saying it is a very risky move.

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