Bulgaria's ABV: Leader, ex-President Should Run Again

Left-wing Alternative for Bulgarian Revival (ABV) has endorsed former head of state Georgi Parvanov as its proposal for a joint presidential candidate with the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP).

Former Labor Minister Ivaylo Kalfin has been selected as Parvanov's possible running mate, according to a press statement from the party which adds its members are ready to discuss a joint bid with a "wide range" of political organizations.

ABV and the BSP have been holding talks on a joint candidacy since earlier in July. Socialist leader Korneliya Ninova, however, has maintained Parvanov, a former BSP head himself, and Kalfin will not be accepted as running mates.

The BSP is currently the second-biggest party in Parliament and the largest opposition force. ABV, which splintered off the socialist party in 2014, is the smallest faction in the legislature, but its leader Parvanov is thought to wield influence among the left-leaning electorate. Dialogue between the two parties had remain frozen until their leaders meet earlier in July.

Parvanov served as President between 2002 and 2012. Bulgaria's constitution leaves it uncertain whether he could have a third term in office.

Nearly three months before the presidential election, no major party or coalition has officially nominated a candidate.

Ninova is reportedly the most preferred name as a nomination of socialists, but has ruled herself out.

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