Bulgarian President Radev Initiates Cabinet Talks Following Government Collapse Amid Protests

President Radev to Commence Consultations

Bulgarian President Rumen Radev announced he will initiate consultations with parliamentary groups on Monday, December 15, 2025, aimed at forming a new government. This constitutional step follows the resignation of Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov's cabinet on Thursday, December 11, 2025. The government's collapse was a direct consequence of widespread anti-corruption protests that swept across the nation.

Government Resignation Amid Public Outcry

Prime Minister Zhelyazkov's government tendered its resignation after weeks of mass street protests. The demonstrations, which saw tens of thousands of citizens in Sofia and other major cities, were initially sparked by a contentious 2026 budget plan. Critics argued that the proposed budget, which included tax increases and higher social security contributions, was a veiled attempt to mask rampant corruption and strengthen government control over public institutions. Public discontent also focused on perceived corrupt governance, an inadequate justice system, and overall economic mismanagement.

The Path to a New Cabinet

Under the Bulgarian Constitution, President Radev will engage in a structured consultation process. He is scheduled to meet with representatives of the two largest parliamentary forces first: the center-right GERB-UDF coalition and the liberal alliance We Continue the Change–Democratic Bulgaria (WCC-DB). Should these parties fail to secure a majority and form a government, the President will then extend an invitation to a third parliamentary group of his choosing. If all attempts to form a regular cabinet prove unsuccessful, President Radev is constitutionally mandated to appoint a caretaker government and call for snap parliamentary elections.

Continued Political Instability and Eurozone Aspirations

This latest political upheaval marks another chapter in Bulgaria's ongoing struggle with governmental stability. Analysts suggest that if the current talks fail, the country could face its eighth general election since 2021, potentially leading to further political fragmentation. The political crisis unfolds just weeks before Bulgaria is slated to join the eurozone on January 1, 2026, a significant economic milestone that now faces an uncertain political backdrop.