Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has openly announced his intention to resign. On Monday evening, January 19th, he addressed the nation via television, calling his address "the last address as president of the country." In his speech, the head of state announced that he would officially submit his resignation letter on January 20.
According to the official procedure, the president's resignation request must be considered by the Constitutional Court. Until the court issues a decision, Radev will continue to work within his authority. If the resignation is accepted, the presidential duties will pass to Vice President Iliyana Yotova.
In his address, Radev specifically mentioned Yotova, stating that he sees her as "a worthy performer of the presidential duties" and expressed his confidence in her. The head of state also addressed society with a spiritual call: emphasizing the responsibility and struggle for the future of the country, he said that he believes in being with "worthy, inspired, and steadfast people" on this path.
For information, Rumen Radev has held the post of President of Bulgaria for two consecutive terms since 2017. His resignation statement came amid protests that have intensified in the country since December.
Several videos circulating on social media are said to be the reason for the escalation of the protests. One of them shows the deputies of the ruling coalition passing the law related to Lukoil's local assets in just 26 seconds. Another video shows the voting process on the controversial budget project, which took place during the lunch break. These cases have further intensified public complaints about the loss of transparency behind the "rapidness of legislation."
It should be recalled that on December 11, when the protests reached their peak, Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov resigned. In this atmosphere of excessive pressure and political tension, local media are reporting that Radev's resignation has another potential plan: he could form his own political party and participate in the early parliamentary elections scheduled for this year.
In short, the political scene in Bulgaria is on the verge of another major turning point. If the resignation is confirmed, Vice President Yotova will assume the leadership of the state, and the country will enter a new stage amid protests and potential elections.
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