Bulgarian President Rumen Radev Announces Resignation Amid Political Crisis

Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has announced his intention to resign from office. In a televised address to the nation, he stated that he would formally submit his resignation on January 20. During his speech, he asked the people for forgiveness and expressed gratitude to all who have placed their trust in him over the years.

Radev reflected on his nine-year presidency, noting that the country has endured significant political turmoil, including mass protests in 2020 and 2025, and the appointment of seven interim governments. Despite these challenges, he highlighted major achievements in European integration, such as Bulgaria becoming a member of the Schengen Area and the Eurozone—goals the country has pursued since the late 1990s.

The outgoing head of state identified the "vicious model of governance" as the root of Bulgaria's political instability. He argued that while the system resembles a democracy on the surface, it operates through oligarchic mechanisms. According to Radev, real decisions are made outside of state institutions by "puppet masters" who openly influence the parliament and government, exerting control over parties, banks, businesses, and the media to suppress opponents.
Radev also noted that he was deeply inspired by the youth who took to the streets during the protests in the autumn of 2025. He described this as a turning point for the nation, urging citizens to move past indifference and fragmentation toward unity.

According to Reuters, the president's resignation was widely expected. Bulgaria is currently preparing for its eighth parliamentary elections in just four years. There is ongoing speculation that Radev may form his own political party to participate in the upcoming campaign, which could take place within the next few months.