Parliament Advances Judicial System Act Amendments
The Bulgarian Parliament has approved at first reading three bills proposing amendments to the Judicial System Act. These legislative initiatives aim to reform the selection process for the Supreme Judicial Council and limit the powers of the Prosecutor General.
Overview of the Proposed Amendments
On May 14, 2026, the National Assembly considered three separate bills introduced by the political groups Progressive Bulgaria, We Continue the Change, and Democratic Bulgaria. Despite originating from different parties, the bills share common objectives:
- Reforming the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC): Introducing new rules for the election of SJC members to enhance transparency and accountability.
- Limiting Prosecutor General's Powers: Imposing restrictions on the authority of the Prosecutor General to prevent potential abuses of power.
Legislative Process and Next Steps
With the first reading approval, the bills will proceed to further parliamentary scrutiny, including committee discussions and potential revisions. The ruling majority anticipates that the final amendments may come into effect by July 2026, pending successful passage through subsequent legislative stages.
Implications for Judicial Reform
These proposed amendments represent a significant step toward judicial reform in Bulgaria. By altering the composition and selection process of the SJC and curbing the powers of the Prosecutor General, the legislation aims to strengthen judicial independence and public trust in the legal system.
Public and Political Reactions
The initiative has garnered support from various political factions advocating for judicial transparency and accountability. However, some critics express concerns about the potential politicization of the judiciary and the effectiveness of the proposed changes in achieving meaningful reform.
