Rumen Radev

Rule Changes

Election winner; awaiting parliamentary constitution before formal mandate to form government

Bulgaria held its eighth parliamentary election in five years on April 19, 2026. Former President Rumen Radev's Progressive Bulgaria coalition won 44.7% of the vote—the largest single-party result in Bulgaria's democratic history—giving it roughly 130 seats and an outright majority in the 240-seat National Assembly. Radev resigned the presidency in January to form the party, riding a wave of anti-corruption anger after mass protests toppled the previous government in December 2025.

Updated May 31

Rule Changes

Resigned; will form new political party after March elections, not before

Bulgaria has had five presidents in its 33-year post-communist history. None resigned before completing their term—until Rumen Radev stepped down on January 23, 2026. His departure elevated Vice President Iliana Iotova to become Bulgaria's first female head of state, a historic milestone overshadowed by the deepest political instability the country has faced since the fall of communism.

Updated May 23

Rule Changes

Acknowledged euro adoption while criticizing lack of referendum in New Year address

Bulgaria became the 21st eurozone member on January 1, 2026, replacing the lev at a fixed rate of 1.95583 per euro. Euro banknotes and coins began circulating at midnight, ending nearly three decades under a currency board.

Updated May 19