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Bulgaria Braces for Fifth Election in Three Years

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, January 12th 2026 at 8:20 GMT by reuters.com

SOFIA, Bulgaria - January 12, 2026 - Bulgaria is bracing for its fifth parliamentary election in less than three years, a stark illustration of the nation's ongoing political instability. GERB, the country's largest political party, formally rejected a request to form a government on Monday, effectively paving the way for a snap election and further prolonging the period of governmental uncertainty.

The situation, as reported by a parliament spokesperson, represents a culmination of months of political turmoil that have left Bulgaria without a fully functioning government since April 2024. This extended period of instability has significantly hampered the country's ability to address pressing economic and social issues, and to fully engage with international partners.

A History of Instability

Bulgaria's recent political landscape has been characterized by a series of short-lived, unelected governments. Following the initial collapse in April 2024, the country has seen three successive prime ministers appointed without a successful vote of confidence in parliament. Each attempt to form a stable coalition has faltered, demonstrating the deep ideological and strategic divides amongst the country's political forces.

This latest attempt to break the deadlock saw the centre-right Union of Democratic Forces (UDF) attempting to secure enough parliamentary support to form a government. However, their efforts proved unsuccessful, leading to the request directed towards GERB, led by the influential and long-standing former prime minister Boyko Borissov. GERB has dominated Bulgarian politics for over a decade, often serving as a cornerstone in various coalition governments. However, in recent years, their influence has waned, and finding reliable coalition partners has become increasingly challenging.

GERB's Reluctance and Underlying Factors

GERB's rejection of the government formation request isn't entirely surprising. While the party retains significant parliamentary weight, the political climate has shifted considerably. The deep societal divisions within Bulgaria, fueled by issues ranging from corruption and economic inequality to differing perspectives on European integration and historical narratives, make forging a cohesive coalition increasingly difficult. Furthermore, the public's weariness of constant elections and a perceived lack of effective governance has created a climate of cynicism and mistrust.

Analysts suggest that GERB's decision also reflects a strategic calculation. By rejecting the offer, they position themselves as the leading force, potentially enabling them to influence the timing and narrative of the upcoming election. They may believe that a fresh mandate, secured in a new election, offers a better chance of gaining the necessary support for a stable government - even if that government is likely to be another coalition.

What to Expect from the Upcoming Election

The date for the fifth election is expected to be announced shortly. The election is likely to be highly contested, with the outcome remaining uncertain. While GERB is still a major player, other parties, including the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP), and a number of smaller, often populist, parties are vying for votes.

Key themes likely to dominate the campaign include economic recovery post-pandemic, tackling corruption, improving the quality of public services, and Bulgaria's relationship with the European Union. The influence of disinformation and foreign interference in the electoral process, a recurring concern in previous elections, is also expected to be a significant factor.

Looking Ahead: Implications for Bulgaria's Future

The repeated cycles of elections and governmental instability pose significant risks to Bulgaria's economic development and its reputation on the international stage. Continued uncertainty discourages foreign investment and hinders long-term planning. While the prospect of a new election offers a chance for a fresh start, it also reinforces the perception of political dysfunction and undermines public confidence. The ability of Bulgarian political leaders to bridge these divides and forge a sustainable path forward will be crucial for the country's future prosperity and stability.