Thousands Protest In Bulgaria Over High Fuel Costs, Car Taxes

Protesters have demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Boyko Borissov

Thousands of Bulgarians have taken part in protests against high fuel prices and hikes in car taxes, blocking highways and roads in the Balkan country on November 11.

Over 2,000 people waving national flags marched in central Sofia chanting "Mafia" and "Rubbish."

Protests were also held in over 20 Bulgarian cities, with dozens of drivers blockading roads, including the one leading to Greece, for hours.

Some demanded the resignation of the center-right coalition government of Prime Minister Boyko Borissov.

Fuel prices have risen in the past month following a spike in global oil prices.

The government's decision to increase the tax on older and more polluting cars from 2019 has angered many in a country where the average monthly salary is 575 euros, among the lowest in the European Union.

The opposition Socialists have condemned the move, which they say will hit over 2 million cars.

Based on reporting by Reuters