The Supreme Court of Cassation refused to initiate proceedings on requests from acting Prosecutor General Borislav Sarafov to reopen criminal cases through two orders issued on Wednesday. The Criminal Chamber determined that Sarafov's authority ended after a six-month period expired on July 21 under amendments to the Judicial System Act that took effect in January. The court stated requests filed after that date do not constitute valid referrals because the law prevents anyone from serving as acting prosecutor general beyond six months.
The Prosecutorial College of the Supreme Judicial Council appointed Sarafov to the temporary position in June 2023. Judges explained the new provision applies non-substantive retroactive effect to existing legal relationships, and the amendment preserves his original appointment but limits future authority. The court concluded Sarafov lacks active legitimation to file reopening requests despite formally belonging to the authorized group under the Criminal Procedure Code.
The Prosecutorial College of the Supreme Judicial Council appointed Sarafov to the temporary position in June 2023. Judges explained the new provision applies non-substantive retroactive effect to existing legal relationships, and the amendment preserves his original appointment but limits future authority. The court concluded Sarafov lacks active legitimation to file reopening requests despite formally belonging to the authorized group under the Criminal Procedure Code.
