From The Guardian

Prime minister makes announcement before parliament vote on no-confidence motion filed by opposition

Protesters demand the resignation of Bulgaria’s government in Sofia on Wednesday amid anger over the 2026 draft budget they said was an attempt to mask corruption. Photograph: Spasiyana Sergieva/Reuters

Bulgaria’s prime minister has handed in his government’s resignation after less than a year in office after weeks of mass street protests over its economic policies and perceived failure to tackle corruption.

Rosen Zhelyazkov announced his resignation on television shortly before parliament had been due to vote on a no-confidence motion submitted by the opposition and before the country is due to join the eurozone on 1 January.

“Our coalition met, we discussed the current situation, the challenges we face and the decisions we must responsibly make,” the prime minister said. “Our desire is to be at the level that society expects. Power stems from the voice of the people.”

After a meeting of the ruling parties’ leaders, he later added: “People of all ages, ethnic backgrounds and religions have spoken out in favour of [the government’s] resignation. This civic energy must be supported and encouraged.”

Tens of thousands of Bulgarians had rallied on Wednesday evening in the capital, Sofia, and dozens of other towns and cities across the country in the latest in a series of rolling demonstrations giving vent to the public’s growing frustration.

Protesters chanted “Resign” and held up “I’m fed up!” signs featuring caricatures of politicians.

For more on this story go to: The Guardian