Bulgarians went to the polls on Sunday in the country’s eighth parliamentary election in five years, as the nation continues to grapple with political instability triggered by ongoing anti-corruption protests. The vote took place amid heightened tensions over the future direction of Bulgaria’s governance and foreign policy stance, particularly regarding relations with Russia and the conflict in Ukraine.

The election centered largely on the platform of former President Rumen Radev, who resigned in January to lead the newly established center-left coalition Progressive Bulgaria. Radev, a former air force general who served three terms as president, campaigned on a pledge to dismantle what he described as the country’s entrenched “oligarchic governance model” and to combat pervasive corruption. Polls prior to the vote projected his bloc could capture approximately 35% of the 240 parliamentary seats.

Radev’s political approach has drawn criticism and concern domestically and internationally. He opposes Bulgarian military aid to Ukraine amid Russia’s ongoing invasion, advocates for renewing ties with Moscow, and has rejected EU green energy strategies, calling them unrealistic. At a large campaign rally, he sharply criticized a recent 10-year defense cooperation agreement Bulgaria signed with Ukraine, raising allegations from opponents that he is excessively conciliatory toward Russia.

The conservative GERB party, led by longtime political figure Boyko Borissov, was expected to finish second with around 20% of the vote. GERB has governed Bulgaria for much of the past decade before being ousted in 2021 following widespread anti-corruption demonstrations. Borissov maintained that his party represents stability and progress, highlighting Bulgaria’s recent entry into the eurozone as a key achievement. He dismissed Radev’s rise as failing to offer meaningful new solutions.

Voter turnout, which plunged to 39% in the 2024 election, was anticipated to increase as Radev mobilized his supporters. However, widespread voter disillusionment persists. Some voters expressed disenchantment with the political system, citing a lack of appealing candidates and mistrust in politicians. Authorities intensified efforts to prevent vote-buying ahead of the election, conducting raids that seized over one million euros and detained several local officials suspected of electoral fraud.

Polling stations opened early Sunday morning and were scheduled to close in the afternoon, with exit polls expected shortly thereafter. Official results were anticipated to be released by Monday. Observers will be closely watching whether Radev’s coalition can secure the parliamentary majority it seeks, potentially reshaping Bulgaria’s political landscape amid ongoing economic and geopolitical challenges.