ITN’s Mitova defends culture minister, warns of debt spiral

Pavela Mitova defended Culture Minister Marian Bachev against recent criticism during a radio appearance, stating she sees no management problems at his ministry. The lawmaker from There Is Such a People said individuals who break laws should face consequences, but dismissed concerns about the minister’s private associations. Mitova chairs the energy committee in the National Assembly.

Bulgaria’s 2026 budget proposal maintains a 3 percent deficit despite right-wing preferences for zero shortfalls, Mitova acknowledged. The spending plan allocates funds for young physicians at 1,860 euros monthly through health insurance transfers totaling 260 million leva. Nurses and midwives will earn 1,550 euros while pensions remain at 620 euros. Second-year maternity benefits reach 460 euros, with working mothers receiving 75 percent of standard compensation.

The representative emphasized that Delyan Peevski holds no governmental authority or parliamentary committee leadership positions. Bulgaria possesses adequate fuel reserves extending for multiple months, she noted. Officials await guidance from the Office of Foreign Assets Control regarding potential export restrictions to prevent price speculation when neighboring countries experience shortages. Mitova expects resolution details within days as authorities finalize their response strategy.