Bulgarian Prime Minister Rossen Zhelyazkov Announces Government Resignation
Bulgarian Prime Minister Rossen Zhelyazkov announced the resignation of his government on Thursday, December 11, 2025, less than a year after taking office.
Background
This announcement comes after a massive protest against corruption within the government administration, which capped a wave of widespread protests. "Today, I want to inform you that the government is resigning," Zhelyazkov said during a press conference after a meeting with the leaders of the ruling parties, just three weeks before Sofia's entry into the eurozone.
Preempting a No-Confidence Vote
By making this announcement, Zhelyazkov has preempted a parliamentary vote on a no-confidence motion filed by the opposition. "People of all ages, ethnicities, and religions have expressed their support for the resignation. That's why this citizen energy must be supported and encouraged," Zhelyazkov stated.
Mass Protests in Sofia
Tens of thousands of people protested against the government in Sofia on Wednesday. For the third time in three weeks, protesters gathered on Independence Square in front of the Parliament in the Bulgarian capital, chanting "Resign!" and holding signs that read "Enough" and "Leave."
Origins of the Protests
The wave of protests, marked by a strong presence of young people, began in late November when the government attempted to urgently adopt the 2026 budget, the first in euros. However, the opposition believed that these increases aimed to hide endemic corruption.
Government Backs Down
Under pressure from the streets, the government withdrew the budget proposal on December 3, which provided for an increase in certain taxes and social contributions.
Call for Resignation
Earlier in December, Bulgarian President Rumen Radev called on the government to resign, writing on Facebook: "There is only one way out: resignation and early elections."
