Bulgaria: Thousands of protesters gather in Sofia July 23 /update 5

Event

On Thursday, July 23, thousands of protesters gathered in the capital Sofia for a 15th consecutive day to demonstrate. Protesters are calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Boyko Borissov amid allegations of widespread government corruption. According to media sources, demonstrators blocked key intersections in the downtown area. Dozens of people have been arrested since the protests sparked on Thursday, July 9.

Further protests and associated disruptions over the issue are likely in the near term.

Context

Protests were sparked in Bulgaria after a raid was conducted on Thursday, July 9, by the Prosecutor-General's Office on the presidential headquarters, which protesters and opponents believe was ordered by Prime Minister Borisov. President Rumen Radev's legal affairs and anti-corruption secretary and his security and defense adviser were detained for questioning and their offices searched as part of probes into alleged influence-peddling and disclosure of state secrets. The searches sparked public anger and brought thousands of demonstrators onto the streets of Sofia to condemn the raids as an attack by the government and the prosecutor-general against Radev.

Advice

Individuals in Bulgaria are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations and political gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.