Bulgarian PM quits amid massive street protests

Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov has resigned following massive protests in Sofia and other cities across the country. Tens of

Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov has resigned following massive protests in Sofia and other cities across the country. Tens of thousands of people filled the capital’s central squares on Wednesday night demanding the government step down.

The resignation comes just 20 days before Bulgaria is set to adopt the euro. It also occurred ahead of a scheduled parliamentary vote of no confidence.

Zhelyazkov, whose minority centre-right government has been in power since January, addressed the nation on television. He said the protests reflected the voice of citizens from all walks of life. “Both young and old have raised their voices for our resignation. This civic energy must be supported and encouraged,” he said.

A statement on the government’s website confirmed that ministers would continue performing their duties until a new cabinet is appointed.

Between 50,000 and 100,000 people participated in Wednesday’s demonstrations. They gathered in Sofia’s Triangle of Power and Independence Square. Protesters displayed slogans such as “Resignation” and “Mafia Out” on the parliament building. President Rumen Radev had also called for the government to step down last week.

The protests have targeted two figures in particular. Oligarch Delyan Peevski has been sanctioned by the US and UK over alleged corruption. Former Prime Minister Boyko Borissov, a member of Zhelyazkov’s GERB party, also drew public anger. The demonstrations carried the slogan “Resignation! Peevski and Borissov Out of Power.”

Zhelyazkov’s government had already survived five votes of no confidence. A sixth vote was scheduled for Thursday. Despite the political upheaval, Bulgaria’s plan to join the eurozone on January 1 is not expected to be affected.

In his resignation statement, Zhelyazkov urged citizens to provide “authentic proposals” for shaping the next government.