Full Breakdown
Andrey Gyurov Launches Bid for Bulgaria’s October 25 Presidency
9/2/2026, 1:15:22 AM
Political Background and Campaign Team
Former caretaker prime minister Andrey Gyurov (born 1975) announced his candidacy for the presidential election scheduled for October 25. Gyurov, who led a two-month interim government in early 2026, will run with Georgi Kandev (born 1975), the former chief secretary of the Interior Ministry, as his vice-presidential candidate. The pair unveiled their ticket in their hometown of Gotse Delchev, emphasizing a pro-EU, reformist platform that positions them against the administration of Prime Minister Rumen Radev. Their campaign is reportedly supported by the Progressive Bulgaria party, the Bulgarian Socialist Party, and the Democratic Bulgaria party, while the dominant GERB party has not yet declared a stance.
Campaign Priorities and Messaging
Gyurov and Kandev outlined four pillars for their platform: advancing Bulgaria’s European integration, strengthening economic competence, ensuring national independence, and improving security and public order. Gyurov framed the bid as a citizen-driven initiative, noting that the nominating committee consists of ordinary Bulgarians rather than party officials. Kandev highlighted his experience in law and security, presenting himself as a figure of integrity without hidden agendas.
Official Statements & Responses
He argued that Bulgaria should rely on capable professionals rather than loyalists. Kandev affirmed his commitment to uphold the law and implement policies without personal motives. Internationally, scientist-philanthropist Prof. Minko Balkanski issued a video message expressing support for the ticket.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The answer is yes, I will run, but the more important question is ‘why’… I don’t dream of a career, I dream of us leaving our children a united, honourable and modern Bulgaria, which is centred around the economy of knowledge and its biggest asset – the people,” — Andrey Gyurov, interim prime minister
- “You all want to hear whether I will enter the race to become Bulgaria’s head of state, and the answer is yes, I will – and Georgi Kandev and I will do it together,” — Andrey Gyurov, interim prime minister
- “Do we have a state that explains its decisions and knows how much those decisions cost? Do we have a state that does not make its citizens pay for poor planning, incompetence and dependence? Do we have a state that relies on those who are capable, rather than those who are loyal to those in power?” — Andrey Gyurov, interim prime minister
- “I know, and I can tell you, when a policy is actually being implemented. I have no hidden agenda. I was brought up to respect and uphold the law,” — Georgi Kandev, as his designated vice-president
These statements capture the candidates’ vision for a “I don’t dream of a career, I dream of us leaving our children a united, honourable and modern Bulgaria, which is centred around the economy of knowledge and its biggest asset – the people,” said Gyurov.” centered on knowledge-based economic growth and lawful governance.
