Bob Denard vs Rumen Radev

Denard led a group of mercenaries in overthrowing President Ahmed Abdallah of the Comoros. The coup installed a new government, but Denard remained a power broker behind the scenes, marking the start of his influence in the islands.

Denard orchestrated a second coup in the Comoros, overthrowing the leftist government of Ali Soilih. He restored Ahmed Abdallah to power and became the de facto ruler of the country, commanding the presidential guard.

After the 1978 coup, Denard was appointed commander of the Presidential Guard. He effectively controlled the Comoros' security apparatus, using his position to enrich himself and maintain power through violence and intimidation.

Denard attempted another coup in the Comoros, but this time French forces intervened. He was arrested and deported to France, where he was tried and imprisoned for his role in the 1995 coup attempt.

Rumen Radev, a former air force commander, won the presidential election as an independent candidate backed by the Bulgarian Socialist Party. He defeated the ruling party candidate, signaling a shift in Bulgarian politics.

Radev vetoed the start of EU accession talks with North Macedonia, citing unresolved historical and language disputes. The veto blocked the negotiations and strained Bulgaria's relations with the EU and its neighbors.

Radev was re-elected for a second term with 66% of the vote, defeating his opponent Anastas Gerdzhikov. His victory reflected continued public support for his anti-corruption stance and independent political position.

Following the collapse of multiple coalition governments, Radev appointed a series of caretaker cabinets to manage the country until new elections. This role gave him significant influence during a period of political instability.