www.gandul.ro/international/cine-este-iliana-iotov

Iliana Iotova is leading the Bulgarian presidential race with 52.5% of the votes, while her opponent Andrey Gyurov has 43.4%. Despite her strong position, Iotova faces criticism for previously pardoning a notorious drug trafficker. Voter turnout in the first round was historically low at 23%, attributed to electoral fatigue and dissatisfaction with the political class. Iotova, a former journalist and vice president, is seen as pro-Russian and opposes arms supplies to Ukraine. Controversies surrounding her campaign include accusations of using state resources for her election and attempts to control media narratives. The political landscape in Bulgaria has shifted significantly following recent parliamentary elections, with Iotova's party gaining a majority.