In an unprecedented move that reshapes Bulgaria’s political landscape, President Rumen Radev declared his resignation during a nationally televised address on Monday. The left-leaning head of state announced his intention to formally submit his resignation to the Constitutional Court on Tuesday, marking the first presidential resignation in Bulgaria’s post-communist history.
Under constitutional provisions, Vice President Iliana Yotova is poised to assume presidential duties following parliamentary confirmation, serving through the remainder of the government’s mandate. Radev’s dramatic departure occurs against the backdrop of escalating political instability within the European Union and NATO member nation, which has been grappling with persistent governance challenges.
The resignation follows massive anti-corruption demonstrations that recently toppled the governing coalition led by the center-right GERB party. Subsequent attempts to establish a new administration within the existing parliament have proven unsuccessful, pushing the country toward its eighth parliamentary election since 2021.
Radev, a 62-year-old former Air Force general whose second term was scheduled through 2026, has consistently positioned himself as a vocal adversary of GERB leader Boyko Borissov and sanctioned oligarch Delyan Peevski. While not explicitly detailing his future plans during Monday’s address, Radev has previously hinted at potential electoral participation and advocated for a new political entity that would ‘unite all democrats—left and right’ in pursuit of fair elections and democratic development.
In his emotionally charged farewell, Radev proclaimed: ‘The battle for the future of our homeland lies ahead, and I believe we will face it together with all of you—the worthy, the inspired, and the unyielding! We are ready. We can, and we will succeed!’