Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov at the announcement of the government's resignation at parliament in Sofia, December 11, 2025. AP
Bulgaria's prime minister announced Thursday, December 11, that his government was resigning after less than a year in office following a series of anti-corruption protests. Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov's announcement came just ahead of a vote in parliament on a no-confidence motion against the government that the opposition had filed.
Tens of thousands of people took to the streets across Bulgaria on Wednesday to protest against the government and corruption in the latest rally since the end of last month. The demonstrations were sparked by a 2026 draft budget, which protesters branded as an attempt to mask rampant corruption. The government withdrew the budget last week, but anger has persisted.
"The government resigns today," Zhelyazkov told reporters after a meeting of ruling parties' leaders. "People of all ages, ethnic backgrounds and religions have spoken out in favor of resignation. That is why this civic energy must be supported and encouraged."
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