Bulgarian government resigns after mass anti-corruption protests

"The Bulgarian government is resigning after less than a year in office after a series of anti-corruption protests, the prime minister has said. Rosen Zhelyazkov's announcement on Thursday came before a vote in parliament on a no-confidence motion filed by the opposition against the government. In the latest rally, tens of thousands of people protested across Bulgaria on Wednesday against the government and its perceived failure to clamp down on corruption."

"The demonstrations were sparked by a 2026 draft budget, which protesters said was an attempt to mask rampant corruption. The government withdrew the budget last week, but anger has persisted. The government resigns today, Zhelyazkov told reporters on Thursday after a meeting of leaders of ruling parties. People of all ages, ethnic backgrounds and religions have spoken out in favour of resignation. That is why this civic energy must be supported and encouraged."

"The EU's poorest country is due to join the eurozone on 1 January. This is expected to go ahead despite the government resigning. Analysts say low trust in Bulgarian institutions and leaders has been compounded by concerns about prices as the country prepares to adopt the euro. Last week, the Bulgarian president, Rumen Radev, declared his support for the protesters and urged the government to resign to make way for early elections."

The Bulgarian government resigned after less than a year in office following large anti-corruption protests and a no-confidence motion. Tens of thousands across Bulgaria rallied against perceived failure to tackle corruption after a 2026 draft budget that protesters said tried to mask rampant corruption; the government withdrew the budget but protests continued. Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov announced the resignation after a meeting of ruling-party leaders. People of all ages, ethnicities and religions demanded resignation, earning support from President Rumen Radev who urged early elections. Bulgaria remains scheduled to join the eurozone on 1 January amid concerns over low trust and rising prices.

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