Bulgarian government resigns amid mass anti-corruption protests

08:30

By: Sahili Aya

Bulgarian government resigns amid mass anti-corruption protests

Bulgaria’s government stepped down on Thursday following one of the largest protest movements the country has seen in recent years, sparked by widespread anger over corruption and mistrust of political institutions. The resignation came just weeks before Bulgaria is scheduled to adopt the euro on January 1.

Prime Minister Rossen Jeliazkov announced the decision during a press conference as lawmakers debated a no-confidence motion submitted by the opposition. His coalition government, formed in January after years of political instability and repeated elections, had already been under intense public pressure.

On Wednesday evening, tens of thousands of people gathered in Sofia and several other cities, calling for an end to what they describe as entrenched corruption within state institutions. The demonstrations, which began in late November, drew large numbers of young Bulgarians frustrated by economic hardship and the emigration of their peers.

Protesters were initially mobilized by the government’s attempt to adopt the 2026 budget through a fast-track procedure. Critics argued that the proposed increases in taxes and social contributions were unnecessary and could mask financial mismanagement. The plan was withdrawn on December 3, but the public outcry continued, fueled by distrust toward the ruling coalition.

A revised budget was introduced in Parliament earlier this week, yet the move failed to calm the streets. According to a MarketLinks poll, more than 70% of Bulgarians support the protest movement, reflecting a rare moment of broad social unity.

President Roumen Radev and opposition parties also urged the government to step down following Wednesday’s mass demonstration. Political analysts expect that early elections — which must take place within two months — are now inevitable, as the main parties have already ruled out forming a new coalition under the current assembly.

Despite the political turmoil, experts say the upcoming transition to the euro is unlikely to be delayed. The Bulgarian National Bank and institutions responsible for the changeover operate independently. However, analysts warn that public sensitivity is high, and even minor technical issues — such as malfunctioning ATMs or sudden price increases — could become sources of political tension.

The ongoing crisis may also reshape Bulgaria’s political landscape. Some observers believe President Radev’s plan to launch a new political party could gain momentum, while others foresee an opportunity for the pro-reform PP-DB coalition to regain influence if the protests continue to expand.