Tue Jan 20 04:59:25 UTC 2026: ### Bulgaria’s President Radev Resigns Amid Political Turmoil, Hints at New Political Venture

The Story:

Bulgaria’s left-leaning President Rumen Radev announced his resignation on Monday, January 19, 2026, from his largely ceremonial position. The move comes amidst a prolonged political crisis in Bulgaria, triggered by widespread anti-corruption protests that forced the centre-right GERB-led government to step down last month. With attempts to form a new government failing, Bulgaria is bracing for its eighth parliamentary election since 2021. Radev’s resignation, a first for a Bulgarian head of state in the post-communist era, is fueled by public expectation that he will form a new political party to contest the upcoming elections.

Key Points:

  • Rumen Radev resigned as President of Bulgaria on January 19, 2026.
  • Radev cited the ongoing political crisis and the need for a new government as reasons for his decision.
  • He hinted at forming a new political party to unite “all democrats” and contest upcoming elections.
  • Vice-President Iliana Yotova will be sworn in to take the post until the end of the presidential mandate, according to the Constitution.
  • Bulgaria is heading towards its eighth parliamentary election since 2021.

Key Takeaways:

  • Bulgaria’s political landscape remains highly volatile.
  • Public dissatisfaction with corruption is a major driving force behind the political instability.
  • Radev’s potential entry into electoral politics could significantly reshape the Bulgarian political scene.
  • The country faces a challenging period of transition as it seeks to overcome its political crisis.
  • The repeated elections suggest a deep fracturing of the Bulgarian political establishment.

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