Bulgaria's government resigns after mass protests over corruption

Bulgaria’s prime minister has handed in his government’s resignation after less than a year in office following weeks of mass street protests over its economic policies and perceived failure to tackle corruption.

- Jon Henley Europe correspondent

Rosen Zhelyazkov announced his resignation on television shortly before parliament had been due to vote on a no-confidence motion submitted by the opposition and before the country is due to join the eurozone on 1 January.

“Our coalition met, we discussed the current situation, the challenges we face and the decisions we must responsibly make,” Zhelyazkov said. “Our desire is to be at the level that society expects. Power stems from the voice of the people.”

After a meeting of the ruling parties' leaders, he later added: “People of all ages, ethnic backgrounds and religions have spoken out in favour of [the government’s] resignation. This civic energy must be supported and encouraged.”