Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov resigned Wednesday night after thousands of protesters filled the streets of Sofia and other Bulgarian cities, just 20 days before the country is set to join the euro. The move came ahead of a scheduled vote of no confidence in parliament.
Public Outrage Over Corruption Allegations
Demonstrators accused Zhelyazkov’s minority centre-right government, in power since January, of rampant corruption. The administration had already withdrawn a controversial 2025 budget proposal following earlier protests.
“We hear the voice of citizens protesting against the government,” Zhelyazkov said in a televised address, adding that both “young and old have raised their voices” for the government’s resignation. His cabinet will remain in place in a caretaker capacity until a new government is formed.
Tens of Thousands Rally in Sofia
An estimated 50,000 to 100,000 people filled Sofia’s Triangle of Power and Independence Square, chanting for the government to step down as the words “Resignation” and “Mafia Out” were projected onto parliament. President Rumen Radev had voiced support for the demonstrators last week and urged the government to resign.
Key Power Figures Draw Public Fury
Much of the frustration has centered on oligarch Delyan Peevski and former prime minister Boyko Borissov. Protesters rallied under the slogan “Resignation! Peevski and Borissov Out of Power.” Peevski, sanctioned by the U.S. and U.K. for alleged corruption, played a key role in sustaining the government. Borissov, leader of the Gerb party, said coalition partners had agreed to remain in power until Bulgaria adopts the euro on 1 January.
Eurozone Entry Still on Track
Despite the upheaval, Bulgaria’s upcoming eurozone accession is not considered at risk. In his resignation message, Zhelyazkov said the country faces a significant political challenge and urged citizens to offer “authentic proposals” for the next governing coalition.
Corruption Remains a Deep-Rooted Issue
Bulgaria continues to rank near the bottom of Transparency International’s EU corruption index, positioned between Hungary and Romania—highlighting the long-standing public frustration driving the latest wave of protests.
For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.