Maxim Behar: Political Stability is Bulgaria more than anything else

Bulgarian public figure and PR expert Maxim Behar appeared on a television program to discuss the political stability of the ruling majority, recent scandals surrounding the electoral process, and the challenges facing the government.

Host: Mr. Behar, what are we witnessing in this political saga — the majority, stability, upcoming elections?

Maxim Behar: The so-called saga is actually quite simple. I’ve known Valyu Tonchev for years, since the days of the Atlantic Club. I don’t believe he holds any antisemitic views. However, there is a problem with his campaign and that video clip. Politics is simple — if anything casts doubt on your integrity or loyalty, another candidate should immediately be proposed. I don't understand why exactly the MRF insists on having their nominee for Deputy Foreign Minister, but I believe it makes sense for this post to be filled by someone supported by all coalition partners.

Host: Is the foundation of power shaking?

Maxim Behar: Absolutely not. Prime Minister Zhelyaskov is calm, intelligent, and balanced. In Southern Europe, it's common for coalitions to experience fluctuations — parties competing for influence, seeking more positions. That doesn’t mean the government is falling apart. On the contrary, it’s normal to have differences and even disputes.

Host: What about the ongoing attacks and the demonization, especially towards Delyan Peevski?

Maxim Behar: Everyone’s talking about Peevski. This demonization is baseless. One person cannot run an entire country alone. Yes, he’s active and outspoken, but ultimately, decisions are made by the government, not by a single individual.

Host: But there are accusations of “compromised parties.” Isn’t that concerning?

Maxim Behar: That’s exactly why a coalition exists — to ensure balance and multiple viewpoints. I’d rather have disagreements within a coalition than be under the rule of one all-powerful party and a “father figure.”

Host: And what about the controversy around vote counting and the Central Election Commission?

Maxim Behar: The problem isn’t just with the elections. The issue is that the whole story remains unclear to the public. The Prosecutor’s Office, the CEC, the Information Services, the Constitutional Court — all of this needs to be transparent. All protocols should be made public — not because people will read them, but because voters have the right to know what’s happening with their vote.

Host: Do you think there’s deliberate concealment?

Maxim Behar: Absolutely. There’s a cover-up right now to preserve the status quo. If a recount is allowed, there will be major shifts. This isn’t just a theory — we’ve seen precedents. Remember the U.S. and the case with Al Gore. The evidence must be revealed if we are to start rebuilding public trust.

The studio discussion touched on key topics concerning the future of political stability and the electoral process. Maxim Behar emphasized that the issues can be addressed through transparency and active civic engagement. Time will tell whether institutions will take the necessary steps to restore trust in the democratic process.

Watch the full interview here.