A committee from the Ministry of Environment and Water (MOEW) has excluded the consortium of companies owned by Alexander Toshev (Johnny Caskett) from a 30-million BGN biodiversity contract, according to "PIK." Toshev became infamous during a scandal involving his business partner, producer Niko Tuparev.
MOEW experts determined that the companies of Toshev and Tuparev, known for producing shows like "Big and VIP Brother," "Games of Will," and "The Bachelor," lack the necessary experience for such specific activities. This decision was made despite significant pressure from Toshev, according to ministry sources.
Interestingly, former Environment Minister Borislav Sandov and his deputy, Toma Belev from the "Green Movement," also attempted to influence the process in favor of Johnny Caskett. The connection between the conglomerate "Yantra 13," the "Kantorata" circle, and the Sandov-Belev duo dates back to previous contracts during the Green Party's leadership at MOEW. Both ecologists allegedly covered up violations during the filming of "Games of Will" in protected areas and beaches under Natura 2000. This time, however, the usually vocal environmentalists remained conspicuously silent.
Even more surprising is the collaboration between Sandov-Belev, who are typically seen as staunch opponents, and former Environment Minister Neno Dimov regarding this contract.
Aside from the substantial financial aspect, this contract—officially titled "Defining Specific Goals and Measures for Protected Areas under Natura 2000, Completing the Mapping Process, and Assessing the State of Ecosystems"—is critical. If not executed precisely, professionally, and with high quality, Bulgaria could face severe penalties from the European Commission, amounting to tens of millions of euros.
Toshev's connections within the Ministry of Environment date back to the tenure of Neno Dimov, whose wife is Toshev's sister. Additionally, Johnny was a close associate of Tsvetan Tsvetanov, with the two managing expensive election campaigns for GERB over many years. GERB leader Boyko Borisov reportedly had serious concerns about how party funds were spent.
During Neno Dimov's term, Toshev wielded significant influence at MOEW. Through a proxy, Asen Krastev, he allegedly meddled in staffing, financial policies, and public procurement processes within the ministry, according to employees. Hopefully, institutions will continue to resist strong lobbying pressure and attempts to impose corrupt practices.
