Bulgaria’s Prime Minister Resigns Amid Mass Anti-Corruption Protests

Bulgaria’s Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov and his cabinet have resigned following widespread public protests over allegations of government corruption. Tens of thousands of citizens, including a significant number of young people, gathered in Sofia to demand accountability, chanting slogans against influential officials accused of corrupt practices.

The resignation occurred just ahead of a scheduled no-confidence vote and only 20 days before Bulgaria is set to adopt the euro, underscoring the political sensitivity of the moment. Despite stepping down, the outgoing government will continue to operate in a caretaker capacity until a new cabinet is formed.

The events highlight the significant influence of civic engagement in holding leaders accountable and shaping governance, demonstrating how sustained public pressure can directly impact national leadership decisions.