Bulgarian Right Wing Demand Full Probe of Socialist 'Energy Mafia'

The UDF leader, Martin Dimitrov, says Bulgarian Socialists have signed unfavorable energy contracts and all Bulgarians are now suffering the negative effects. Photo by BGNES

Bulgaria’s right-wing Union of Democratic Forces (UDF) demand a full probe of all State funds spent on the project to build a second Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) in the Danube town of Belene.

The UDF leader, Martin Dimitrov, told reporters on Monday that it is time to began a large-scale special operation against people from Bulgaria’s so-called “energy mafia,” reminding that in a week the price of natural gas goes up nearly 30% leading to 15% to 20% higher heating prices. This includes gas prices for the industry, meaning all goods and services in Bulgaria will become more expensive, Dimitrov points out.

According to UDF, the responsibility for this heavy blow to all Bulgarians belongs to former Energy Minister, Rumen Ovcharov, former Prime Minister, Sergey Stanishev, and the President, Georgi Parvanov – all from the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP) – because 3 years ago they were involved in the signing of an unfavorable contract with the Russian monopoly Gazprom, leading to over BGN 1 B in losses for Bulgaria.

The right wing further say the ruling Citizens for European Development of Bulgaria (GERB) party must stand up for national interests regarding Russia and UDF can offer assistance to them in preparing a clear position.

The Mayor of the northern city of Pleven, Nayden Zelenogorski, who is among the UDF leadership, further pointed out that in addition to lower resources, (30% less in the revised State budget), the gas price hike with hurt municipalities where day care centers and schools use central heating.

In order to avoid the gas crisis, UDF demand a faster building of connections with Romania and Greece, increasing the gas volume in the Chiren storage to its full capacity and a common European energy policy.

UDF reiterated Monday they will support the revised budget only if their demands are met – budget deficit below 3% for 2010, balanced budget for 2011, lower expenses and keeping taxes at their current level.

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