site.btaJune 10, 1990: Bulgaria's First Democratic Elections after Socialist Regime

June 10 marks 35 years from the first democratic Grand National Assembly elections in 1990 after the fall of the socialist regime in Bulgaria. The Assembly was tasked with drafting a new constitution.

The elections were significant for the transition of political regimes in Bulgaria. Political activity was high, with rallies of the Union of Democratic Forces (UDF) in the days prior to the election and 90% voter turnout – the highest in Bulgarian history. Many Bulgarians, including politicians themselves were sure that the Democratic Forces would win. Some of the UDF members even headed for celebration near the National Palace of Culture.

Results, however, were in favour of the Bulgarian Socialist Party (former Bulgarian Communist Party) which won 221 of the 400 seats in the Assembly. The fact ignited strong feelings in the Bulgarian public. Street blockades, barricades and protests took place in Sofia. Many believed that the elections were manipulated.

Students from Sofia University organized university occupation and demanded verification of the elections’ legitimacy. The protest movement spread throughout universities in the whole country.

Nevertheless, on July 12, 1991, the Grand National Assembly adopted the new Bulgarian Constitution which transformed the country into a democratic state with market economy. The Grand Assembly was dissolved shortly after that on October 2. The first parliamentary elections under the new constitution were held on October 13.