Bulgaria’s government has announced its resignation amid mass anti-corruption protests, with Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov stating that he and his cabinet will step down. The decision comes ahead of a no-confidence vote, which was scheduled for Thursday. This move follows weeks of demonstrations across the country, with protesters accusing the government of corruption and expressing frustration over the failure to address the issue.

The protests were sparked by a proposed 2026 budget, which included higher taxes and increased social security contributions. Although the government withdrew the proposal, the demonstrations continued, with protesters demanding Zhelyazkov’s resignation and the removal of other influential politicians. Bulgaria is set to join the euro zone on January 1, and the government’s resignation comes at a critical time for the country’s economic and political landscape.

The opposition parties had tabled a motion of no-confidence against Zhelyazkov’s government, which was expected to be defeated by the ruling coalition. However, the prime minister announced that he and his government would resign, regardless of the vote’s outcome. Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, who has limited powers under the country’s constitution, had previously backed the calls for the government’s resignation.

With Zhelyazkov’s resignation, President Radev is expected to ask parties in parliament to form a new government. If they are unable to do so, he will be tasked with forming an interim administration until new elections can be held. Bulgaria has held seven national elections over the past four years, highlighting the country’s ongoing political instability.

The government’s resignation is a significant development in Bulgaria’s ongoing struggle with corruption. The country has been criticized for its lack of progress in addressing the issue, and the protests reflect the growing frustration among citizens. As Bulgaria prepares to join the euro zone, the formation of a new government will be crucial in restoring stability and confidence in the country’s political and economic systems. The next steps will be closely watched, both domestically and internationally, as Bulgaria navigates this critical period in its history.