Paralysis of the capital and imprisoned MPs. Bulgarians did not like the draft budget

After protests in front of parliament, the most serious until 2013, the leader of the largest party in the National Assembly, Boyko Borissov, called on the prime minister to withdraw the controversial draft budget bill for next year.

Borissov also called for the resumption of dialogue with employers and trade unions, which was interrupted when the government refused to withdraw the most objectionable elements of the draft budget.

Tens of thousands of people took part in the protest that took place on Wednesday in front of the parliament; the demonstration lasted into the night.

Members of the ruling coalition were imprisoned in the building for a long timebut they did not decide to approach the protesters blocking the entrances to the building.

There were clashes with the police, and according to the Interior Ministry, three policemen and two protesters suffered minor injuries. On Thursday, deputies resumed their work, but police patrols remained reinforced on the streets.

It is still unclear what will be changed in the controversial draft budget. Both employers and unions are demanding the withdrawal of the plan to increase social security contributions by 2%, increase tax for enterprises, and limit the amount of benefits for young mothers. Doctors and public sector employees are demanding raises, but they are intended only for the police and secret services, whose salaries have been increased by 50% in 2025.

The negotiations have not started yet, but according to Borissov, the most important thing is the readiness to continue the dialogue. However, employers and unions declare that they are ready to resume protests if their demands are not met.

From Sofia Evgenia Manołowa (PAP)

man/fit/