Vasil Bozhkov, a highly influential Bulgarian businessman, has made headlines by announcing his candidacy for parliament as the head of his newly formed National Movement CENTRE party. Bozhkov, who is on the US sanctions list, will lead his party’s list in the capital of Sofia and Pazardjik.
Bozhkov’s return to the political scene comes after a tumultuous period that saw him flee to Dubai following criminal charges brought against him by the Bulgarian prosecutor’s office. Despite facing more than 16 charges, including non-payment of gambling fees and illegal possession of antiquities, Bozhkov has been released on bail and is now actively participating in the election campaign.
The businessman, known as “The Skull”, has vowed to fight against the political status quo in Bulgaria, positioning his party as the only alternative to the current leadership. With his previous party, Bulgarian Summer, facing sanctions and suspension of activities by the US under the Magnitsky Act, Bozhkov is determined to challenge the ruling party GERB and its leader Boyko Borisov.
As the election campaign heats up, Bozhkov’s presence on the political stage adds a new dimension to the race. With his past controversies and ongoing legal battles, his candidacy will undoubtedly spark debate and scrutiny. The upcoming elections on June 9 will test the appeal of Bozhkov’s new party and its potential to disrupt the established political order in Bulgaria.