site.btaJune 7, 1990: Half a Million Rally in Sofia in Hope for Democratic Change

On June 7, 1990, a pre-election rally organized by the Union of Democratic Forces (UDF) was held at Orlov Most (Eagles Bridge) in Sofia. More than half a million people gathered, driven by hope that the political changes sweeping the country would lead to a better life.

The first free elections in Bulgaria since the fall of communism were held shortly after, on June 10 and 17, 1990. These elections were for the 7th Grand National Assembly, tasked with drafting a new Constitution. A total of 400 MPs were elected – 200 through proportional representation and 200 via majoritarian vote.

Forty parties, coalitions, and movements registered to take part in the elections. The Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP) won with 211 seats, followed by the UDF with 144 seats. The Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF) secured 23 seats, while the Bulgarian Agrarian National Union won 16.

Supporters of the UDF believed the election results had been manipulated and responded with mass protests.

On July 4, 1990, a sit-in protest began in Sofia, evolving into a tent encampment known as the City of Truth. That summer, the Grand National Assembly passed a resolution to dismantle the symbols of communist rule.