Calls for ‘Resignation’ of the Government at Protests in Major Cities Across the Country

PLOVDIV

A protest is taking place this evening, December 10, in Bulgaria's second largest city of Plovdiv as well, starting from Saedinenie Square.

Demonstrators began gathering much earlier today. Yes, there is a march again tonight, as on 1 December, but today the route will be different. After the demonstration at Saedinenie Square, protesters are expected to head towards the fairgrounds, crossing the Maritsa River bridge. This change prompted some speculation in the days leading up to the protest.

Some protesters believe the route was deliberately changed and that they were denied permission to march to the municipal building, where they intended to demand the resignation of the city’s mayor, Kostadin Dimitrov, who, as you know, is from GERB.

According to the official organisers, however, they submitted exactly this route to the fairgrounds for logistical reasons — namely, that there is enough space there to accommodate the large-scale march expected again this evening.

Today’s protest in Plovdiv is held under the motto “Come again, come peacefully.” The call is for unity and a peaceful demonstration that Plovdiv has awakened. “It is time to demand accountability, integrity and resignation,” the protesters say.

“It is time to stand shoulder to shoulder — all of us who reject a government that makes decisions behind people’s backs, misuses state funds and divides society.”

VARNA

More than 10,000 residents of Varna are demanding the resignation of the government. The march passed without incident along the central boulevards and gathered for a rally outside the Courthouse.

The main demands of the demonstrators in Varna are the resignation of the government of Rosen Zhelyazkov and early parliamentary elections. Protesters also voiced opposition to next year’s state budget.

The event is organised by We Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria. So far, the protest has remained peaceful, without provocations or tension.

There is increased police presence. Varna police also announced that individuals wearing masks who cannot be identified would not be allowed to join the demonstration.

The number of protesters continues to grow by the minute.

BURGAS

Thousands are protesting at Atanas Sirekov Square in front of Burgas Municipality and along the central streets Aleksandrovska and Bogoridi.

People here express dissatisfaction not only with the budget but also with the current governance.

At the previous protest there were various chants, including demands for the government’s resignation. This evening the protesters’ demands remain the same. According to them, the government is working against the interests of Bulgarian citizens.

Many young people and families with children are attending, while chants of “Resignation!” and “Mafia!” can be heard throughout. Protesters are carrying banners reading: “Mafia out!”, “Disgrace”, “I don’t want to live in such a country.”

A march is expected to follow.

VELIKO TARNOVO

photos by Mirela Doncheva

STARA ZAGORA

photos by Ivan Yanev

BLAGOEVGRAD

The protest in Blagoevgrad proceeded peacefully, accompanied by chants. Protesters are demanding the government’s resignation.

People from across the region gathered in the city square. They are adamant that they will continue to protest until their demands are met.

Photos by Miglena Medarova

DOBRICH

With chants of “Resignation and prison!”, hundreds protested in Dobrich outside the municipal building.

They are calling for early elections.

Photos by Nadezhda Karapacheva

SMOLYAN

An anti-government protest is also taking place in Smolyan. Protesters filled Bulgaria Square in the city centre. With loud chants, they demanded the government’s resignation. Organisers from WCC–DB stated that the protest is peaceful and non-partisan, expressing the people’s will for a change of government. A peaceful march along the city’s main boulevard is planned.

Mihail Kambarev, organiser (WCC):
“People in Smolyan have also had enough. They say this outrage — Peевски constantly stealing and reaching into every citizen’s pocket — will not be tolerated. So today we stand as a nation to say we disagree and that it is time for resignation.”

Kostadin Keremedchiev, protester:
“I no longer trust any party in Parliament, but I hope that some young, honest people come forward so things can start to improve, even a little.”

Photos by Velichka Petkova

MONTANA

Thousands have taken part in an anti-government protest in Montana as well. This is the city’s third such demonstration, but today significantly more people joined. They are protesting against what they describe as the division of the state between two individuals. Many called on Borisov and Peevski to live for a month on their salaries. The protest is peaceful, with increased police presence.

Deni, mother of three:
“Everything needs to change entirely. The future for our children is dark with this government and this system.”

Meri, mother of three:
“It’s not fair that Peevski’s dinner costs a thousand leva, or his wine, while we work for 1,000 leva a month. Mr Peevski, I ask you — try living for one month on our income.”

Dimitar, student:
“I want to show that my voice matters. I always vote, and my vote is not for sale — just like the votes of all young people. I support the young, because hope lies with them.”