Bulgaria’s Cabinet Steps Down Amid Nationwide Unrest

SOFIA, Bulgaria —Bulgaria’s government resigned on Thursday after days of nationwide protests demanding action against corruption and greater political accountability. Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov announced the decision in a brief televised statement, saying the administration had “heard the voice of the public.”

The resignation came minutes before parliament was expected to hold a no-confidence vote, which the ruling coalition was widely projected to lose. The protests, which began late last month, grew into one of the largest civic mobilizations in the country in recent years, filling streets in Sofia and dozens of other cities.

Demonstrators called for an end to what they described as entrenched corruption, political favoritism, and weak oversight of public institutions. Crowds gathered nightly outside government buildings, carrying flags and chanting for immediate leadership change. Police reported no major clashes, though several city centers experienced prolonged traffic disruptions.

Government officials initially attempted to lower tensions by withdrawing a controversial budget proposal that had triggered early demonstrations. However, public anger continued to escalate, and turnout increased as unions, students, and civic groups joined the movement.

Following the resignation, Bulgaria’s president is expected to begin consultations with parliamentary parties to determine whether a new coalition can be formed. If negotiations fail, the president may appoint a caretaker government and schedule new elections.

The political upheaval comes just weeks before Bulgaria’s planned entry into the eurozone on January 1, raising new questions about administrative continuity and policy coordination during the transition period. Economic officials, however, have said preparations will proceed as scheduled.

Opposition parties welcomed the resignation as a necessary response to widespread public dissatisfaction but warned that rebuilding trust will require broad reforms and stronger institutional safeguards.