Anger over corrupt politicians could open door to "Bulgaria's Trump"

Veselin Mareshki, leader of Will party speaks during an interview with Reuters in his party's office in Sofia, Bulgaria, March 9, 2017. Picture taken on March 9, 2017. REUTERS/Stoyan Nenov

SOFIA (Reuters) - A self-described Bulgarian Donald Trump, who gained prominence in politics last year with a pledge to "sweep away corrupt elites", could hold the balance of power in a parliamentary election in Bulgaria on March 26.

An owner of a pharmacy chain and petrol filling stations, among other businesses, Veselin Mareshki, 49, shocked political observers in November when he came fourth in a presidential ballot, scoring 11 percent of votes.