Bulgaria's first European Public Prosecutor has received a formal reprimand from the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) just two weeks before her mandate was set to expire on 28 July 2026. 24 Chasa reports that the sanction, described as the lightest available under disciplinary proceedings, was issued by EPPO's college.
A mandate overshadowed by scandal
Teodora Georgieva had already been suspended from her post more than a year before the reprimand was handed down. Disciplinary proceedings against her were launched in March 2025, according to 24 Chasa, following alleged violations connected to a case involving the misuse of EU funds in the expansion of the Chiren gas storage facility. At the time, Georgieva publicly complained of pressure and threats directed at her.
The situation grew more complicated when recordings surfaced of a meeting between Georgieva and Petyo Petrov, widely known as "Pepi Evroto," a figure reportedly influential in judicial appointments. The meeting allegedly took place while Georgieva was still only a candidate for the European prosecutor role. Bulgarian media reported that Petrov may have helped facilitate her appointment in Luxembourg. Petrov is currently a wanted fugitive.
Why a reprimand and not dismissal
The EPPO's Disciplinary Council reportedly recommended a reprimand from the outset of its review. The EPPO then sought opinions from the European Parliament, the Council of the EU, and the European Commission on whether to pursue a case before the EU Court of Justice for her full removal from office. That court process never materialised.
