Protests in Bulgaria’s capital lead to multiple arrests, weapons confiscated

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in central Sofia on December 10, calling for the resignation of Bulgaria’s government. The protest, concentrated near the so-called “triangle of power” and the Bulgarian National Bank building, concluded without major incidents.

According to Bulgarian media, more than 30 participants were detained by police. Authorities reported that some of those arrested were found in possession of knives, brass knuckles, pyrotechnics, drugs, and large sums of cash. Following the official end of the rally, a segment of protesters briefly blocked traffic on the Orlov Most bridge.

During the demonstrations, laser slogans appeared on the parliament’s facade, displaying messages such as “Resignation,” “Mafia Out,” and “For Fair Elections.” Opposition politicians urged the government to step down, while students who had previously blocked Rakovski Street joined the ongoing protests.

The unrest comes after the government was forced last week to withdraw its 2026 budget plan—the first to be drafted in euros—following mass demonstrations. Opposition parties and other groups opposed planned increases in social security contributions and dividend taxes, which were intended to fund higher government spending.

Today, the Bulgarian parliament is set to consider a vote of no confidence against the Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov's cabinet. If passed, this would mark the sixth no-confidence vote since the cabinet took office on January 15. Bulgaria, which has held seven national elections over the past four years, remains deeply divided along political and social lines.

Despite the opposition pressure, former Prime Minister and leader of the ruling GERB party, Boyko Borisov, stated that coalition partners have agreed not to resign before Bulgaria officially joins the eurozone on January 1. Nevertheless, the opposition has vowed to continue its efforts.

By Tamilla Hasanova