Co-Leader of Bulgaria's Junior Govt Partner Mulls 2016 Presidential Bid

Radan Kanev, who co-chairs the Reformist Bloc (RB), a junior partner in Bulgaria's coalition government, has said he was considering an option to run for President in elections next year.

In an interview with weekly Capital, he has explained he would be unable to decide before the second round of local elections that are due on October 25 (a run-off will most likely be held the Sunday after, i.e. November 01).

Though not depending on the outcome of the elections, the decision should not be taken before the end of the campaign where most of his efforts are currently concentrated, Kanev has explained.

In his words, the idea is yet to be discussed within the RB, a loose right-wing coalition formed in 2013 to offer an "alternative" to conservative GERB party of Prime Minister Boyko Borisov.

The RB has struggled to find the balance between several of its parties, such as Kanev's Democrats for Strong Bulgaria (DSB), the Union of Democratic Forces (SDS) of Economy Minister Bozhidar Lukarski, and the Bulgaria for Citizens Movement (DBG) of Deputy PM Meglena Kuneva - which often voice contrasting position on policy issues.

Despite being largely ceremonial, the President's office in Bulgaria is considered important for symbolizing national unity, but also due to head of state's veto powers.