Rosen Zhelyazkov

Rosen Zhelyazkov was the Prime Minister of Bulgaria. He resigned in December 2025 after less than a year in office due to widespread mass protests across the country. These protests were fueled by public anger over his government's perceived failure to tackle corruption and its unpopular economic policies, including a controversial 2026 draft budget. The protests, largely driven by young Bulgarians, also highlighted concerns about democratic dysfunction. Zhelyazkov's resignation came shortly before a scheduled no-confidence vote in parliament. His departure marks the latest period of political instability in Bulgaria, which has seen multiple snap elections in recent years. The resignation has triggered the need for another early election, with President Radev expected to appoint a caretaker cabinet and set a date for the vote.