Public contracts that hide corruption risk will not be paid, said Deputy Prime Minister Golube Donyev

In a recent statement on Bulgarian television, Finance Minister Gylb Doneyev emphasized that public tenders will only be paid after thorough verification processes have been completed. This declaration comes amid growing concerns over potential corruption risks associated with certain projects. According to Doneyev, all payments will be made following inspections conducted by the State Financial Inspection Agency and the National Construction Control body. He stressed that no funds would be disbursed without confirmation of their legitimacy and compliance with regulations.

Doneyev highlighted that the current budget is under significant pressure due to nearly nine billion euros worth of municipal projects initiated in the past two years without adequate financial backing. The government now faces the obligation to fund these projects as they near completion. Additionally, the budget has been further burdened by extended spending measures taken between January and May of this year, adding more than one point one billion euros in additional costs. These figures underscore the complexity of managing the national finances amidst ongoing fiscal challenges.

The minister also addressed the issue of a halted public tender for security barriers valued at almost 490 million euros. Approximately forty percent of this amount was allocated for administrative and legal services, while only sixty percent went towards the actual delivery of the barriers. Doneyev pointed out that this allocation raised questions about where the remaining funds were being directed. He confirmed that no payments had yet been made for this project, which is currently under review by the Competition Protection Commission.

Furthermore, Doneyev reiterated his stance on the budget deficit, noting that it stands at five point seven percent of gross domestic product (GDP). He attributed this figure to the legacy left behind by previous administrations and stated that those responsible for creating such deficits are now the most vocal critics of them. Despite efforts to reduce the deficit from seven point four percent to five point seven percent, he acknowledged that achieving true fiscal stability requires careful management of both revenue and expenditure policies.

Regarding proposed increases in toll fees, Doneyev indicated that although a thirty percent increase might seem alarming at first glance, it translates to just one point two euros per month for the average citizen. He mentioned ongoing discussions with representatives from the transportation sector, who have not expressed major concerns about the proposed changes. Similarly, the increase in the maximum insurable income up to 2300 euros was seen as beneficial for individuals nearing retirement age, as it would lead to higher pension benefits.

Doneyev also discussed plans to freeze salaries in certain sectors, arguing that such measures could help curb inflation without causing widespread economic hardship. He suggested that reducing inflation levels would prevent population decline and maintain overall economic health. Another notable policy change involves state employees gradually beginning to cover their personal insurance costs themselves, though net wages would remain unaffected. These reforms are set to take effect starting in 2028.

The finance minister's comments reflect a broader strategy aimed at addressing long-standing fiscal issues while implementing necessary reforms to ensure sustainable economic growth. His approach underscores the need for transparency, accountability, and strategic planning in managing Bulgaria’s financial landscape moving forward. As these policies unfold, their impact on various sectors and the general populace will become increasingly evident, shaping the country's economic trajectory in the coming years.