Tens of thousands join anti-government protests across Bulgaria

SOFIA, Bulgaria — Tens of thousands of Bulgarians took to the streets in the latest wave of mass protests across Bulgaria on Wednesday. They are demanding an end to widespread corruption in the government, highlighting political divisions just before the country’s transition to the euro as its official currency in January.

The protests began following the government’s proposal for higher taxes, increased social security contributions, and budget allocations, which were later rescinded due to public outcry.

The demonstrators now seek the resignation of Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov’s center-right government.

In Sofia, protesters gathered at a central square, demanding the government’s resignation with chants of “Mafia” and “Resignation.”

University students in Sofia joined the protests, which drew over 100,000 people according to media estimates. The discontent stems from the influence of politician and oligarch Delyan Peevski on government policies.

Despite the large turnout, the protests remained peaceful with no reports of violence.

Meanwhile, the opposition coalition We Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria has called for a no-confidence vote in the government, scheduled for Thursday.

Bulgarian President Rumen Radev described the protests as a vote of “no confidence in the Cabinet,” urging lawmakers to prioritize the will of the people.

Bulgaria is set to become the 21st member of the eurozone, transitioning from the lev to the euro on January 1, marking a significant step in the country’s integration with the EU.