Bulgaria's minority center-right government, led by Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov, has resigned following widespread public protests across the country. The demonstrations culminated in large gatherings in the capital, Sofia, on Wednesday evening. The resignation occurred ahead of a scheduled parliamentary vote of no confidence and approximately 20 days prior to Bulgaria's planned adoption of the euro currency.
Government Resignation
Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov announced the resignation of his government, which had been in power since January. The decision followed a series of public demonstrations throughout Bulgaria, with significant gatherings in Sofia on Wednesday evening. Ministers will continue in their roles until a new cabinet is formed and elected, according to a statement on the government's official website. Prime Minister Zhelyazkov had served in his position for less than a year.
In a televised address, Prime Minister Zhelyazkov acknowledged the public sentiment, stating, "We hear the voice of citizens protesting against the government." He added, "Both young and old have raised their voices for [our resignation]," and further commented that "This civic energy must be supported and encouraged."
Catalyst for Protests: Budget Plan and Accusations
The protests were fueled by a range of grievances, including widespread accusations of government corruption. A key point of contention was a proposed 2026 draft budget plan. Opponents cited concerns over:
- Alleged government corruption.
- Proposed increases to social security contributions.
- Proposed increases in taxes on dividends, intended to fund higher state spending.
In response to earlier demonstrations the previous week, the government had already withdrawn this draft budget plan on Monday.
The proposed 2026 budget was designed to be Bulgaria's first denominated in euros, aligning with the country's scheduled entry into the eurozone on January 1. Public opinion within Bulgaria regarding euro adoption is divided, with some expressing concerns about potential inflationary impacts in what is one of the European Union's poorest member states.
Timeline of Demonstrations
Protests had been ongoing, initially emerging when the budget plan was presented to parliament.
- Monday Evening: Widespread public demonstrations were held in Sofia and various other cities across the country. Tens of thousands of individuals participated. In Sofia, some masked demonstrators reportedly engaged in clashes with police and attacked the offices of the ruling Gerb party and the DPS party. More than 70 people were arrested following these incidents, according to Sofia's interior affairs chief Lyubomir Nikolov. This demonstration in Sofia was noted as one of the capital's largest in recent years.
- Wednesday Evening: An estimated 50,000 to 100,000 individuals gathered in Sofia's central Triangle of Power and Independence Square, advocating for the government's departure. Slogans such as "Resignation" and "Mafia Out" were projected onto the parliament building during these protests.
Presidential Involvement and Historical Context
President Rumen Radev had also publicly supported the protesters' calls, urging the government to step down the previous week.
Protests addressing government corruption have been a recurring feature in Bulgaria. Since 2020, the country has experienced several short-lived governments, with previous Gerb-led coalitions also facing public dissent.