Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov stepped down on Thursday following significant anti-corruption protests across Bulgaria. Tens of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets on Wednesday night, demanding the government’s resignation due to ongoing corruption allegations. Zhelyazkov announced his cabinet’s resignation during an extraordinary session in the National Assembly, acknowledging the citizens’ demands.
Mass Protests Across Bulgaria
The protests began in Sofia, where demonstrators gathered near key government buildings. Organized groups utilized lasers to project messages such as “Resignation” and “Fair Elections” onto the parliament. Estimates from media reports indicate that over 100,000 people participated, with some sources reporting numbers as high as 150,000. This turnout exceeded previous protests which had drawn over 50,000 participants.
Nationwide Demonstrations
Protests extended to more than 25 major cities, including:
- Plovdiv
- Varna
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Razgrad
In Plovdiv, a significant gathering took place at Saedinenie Square, while close to 10,000 people convened in Burgas. Demonstrators also rallied abroad, with gatherings in cities like Brussels and London, voicing their demands for better living conditions and government accountability.
Causes of Discontent
The protests were partly prompted by the government’s controversial 2026 budget proposals, which included tax increases and higher social security contributions. After public backlash, the administration withdrew the budget plan.
Focus on Corruption and Oligarch Influence
A central figure in the protests is Delyan Peevski, a prominent Bulgarian politician linked to the Movement for Rights and Freedoms party. Peevski, facing international sanctions for corruption since June 2021, has been accused of exerting undue influence over the government’s policies.
Political Reactions
President Rumen Radev commented on the protests, stating they reflected a vote of no confidence in the cabinet. He urged lawmakers to heed the citizens’ voices during the parliamentary vote scheduled for the day after Zhelyazkov’s resignation.
Upcoming Political Changes
The opposition coalition, “We Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria,” has been vocal in calling for a no-confidence vote against the government. Zhelyazkov’s resignation precedes this vote, which would have marked the sixth such motion raised by the opposition.
As Bulgaria prepares to adopt the euro on January 1, 2024, public opinion remains divided on the currency transition, with recent surveys showing almost equal support and opposition among citizens.
