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Many of the country’s most prominent political and cultural figures—including Georgi Parvanov, the President from 2002 to 2012—have been revealed as collaborators.

The 47-year-old engineer will replace outgoing president Georgi Parvanov, a Socialist, denying the opposition a high-profile, though largely ceremonial, position and the chance to veto bills or appointments initiated by the cabinet.

Incumbent Georgi Parvanov, elected to a second five- year term in 2007, was prevented by the constitution from seeking a third term.

Incumbent Georgi Parvanov, elected to a second five- year term in 2007, is prevented by the constitution from seeking a third term.

While the presidential role is largely ceremonial, a Plevneliev win -- replacing incumbent Socialist Georgi Parvanov -- would remove potential for a high-profile dissenting voice and the threat of vetoing legislation.