Global news agencies cover the cabinet’s resignation following massive protests

 

Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov submitted his government’s resignation following weeks of street protests against economic policies and perceived failures in the fight against corruption, world news agencies reported, cited by BTA. 

• Government resigns without waiting for vote of no confidence
• Mass anti-government protests across Bulgariaahead of the no-confidence vote

Reuters recalled that Rosen Zhelyazkov’s government had withdrawn its draft 2026 budget plan, but despite the retreat demonstrations continued unabated in a country that has held seven national elections in the past four years, most recently in October 2024, amid deep political and social divisions. The agency also cited President Rumen Radev’s message to MPs: “You choose between the dignity of a free vote and the shame of dependencies. Between the voice of the people and fear of the mafia. Hear the streets!”

 

“At the core of the protesters’ frustrations is the role of Bulgarian politician and oligarch Delyan Peevski, who has been sanctioned by both the United States and Britain, and whose party, DPS – New Beginning, backs the government. Peevski has been accused by opponents of helping shaping government policy in line with oligarchic interests”, wrote the Associated Press.

 

Agence France-Presse noted that the government’s resignation came after an unprecedented wave of discontent in recent years, with a significant presence of young people. “I’m here because corruption is everywhere. The situation is unbearable. Most of my friends don’t live in Bulgaria and won’t return”, the agency quoted 24-year-old Gergana Gelkova.

 

The Spanish agency EFE highlighted that public anger targeted former Prime Minister Boyko Borisov and the corruption-sanctioned oligarch Delyan Peevski, who holds substantial sway over the judiciary, security services, major media groups, and strategic sectors of the economy in the EU’s poorest member state.

Edited by Diana Tsankova

Translated by Kostadin Atanasov