Romania’s Central Election Bureau rejected Calin Georgescu’s candidacy for the presidential election redo, eliciting public protests and allegations of impropriety leading to political instability. Georgescu criticized the decision, claiming it undermined democracy and has received backing from notable figures amid ongoing investigations into his conduct. The new election is set for May 4, with an appeal option available within 24 hours.
On Sunday, Romania’s Central Election Bureau (BEC) dismissed Calin Georgescu’s candidacy in a redo of the presidential election. Georgescu, a far-right populist, previously won the first round of the election before a top court annulled the results. His official candidacy, submitted in Bucharest, was rejected within 48 hours, with the grounds for the decision yet to be disclosed. A comprehensive text of the BEC’s ruling is expected to be published on its official website, and an appeal can be lodged with the Constitutional Court within a day.
The rejection provoked substantial public discontent, leading to protests outside the BEC headquarters. Demonstrators expressed their grievances by waving Romanian flags and chanting slogans calling for another revolution. Responding to the BEC’s decision, Georgescu asserted it represented “a direct blow to the heart of democracy worldwide.” He emphasized, “If democracy in Romania falls, the entire democratic world will fall!” expressing concerns over what he perceives as tyranny in Romania under European governance.
The BEC’s ruling follows the Constitutional Court’s unexpected annulment of the initial election results due to allegations stating that Russia orchestrated a campaign to bolster Georgescu’s profile as an independent candidate. This unprecedented decision has led to a prolonged political crisis in Romania, a member of both the European Union and NATO. Prosecutors are currently investigating Georgescu for allegations including incitement against constitutional order and supporting extremist groups.
Despite facing serious accusations, Georgescu maintains he is not pro-Russia, although he has openly praised Russian President Vladimir Putin. The upcoming election’s first round is set for May 4, with a potential runoff on May 18 if no candidate secures more than 50% of the vote. The candidacy deadline is March 15 at midnight.
George Simion, the leader of the far-right Alliance for the Unity of Romanians and an ally of Georgescu, criticized the BEC’s decision, denouncing it as “a new abuse and a continuation of the coup d’état.” Influential figures such as U.S. Vice President JD Vance and entrepreneur Elon Musk have rallied behind Georgescu, condemning Romania’s actions regarding the annulled elections. Musk described the BEC’s decision as “crazy.”
In summary, Calin Georgescu’s candidacy for the Romanian presidential election redo has been rejected by the Central Election Bureau, leading to protests and expressions of outrage regarding perceived democratic failures. The situation has escalated into a broader political crisis, with allegations of foreign interference and ongoing investigations into Georgescu. As the new election approaches, he continues to garner support from prominent figures, further polarizing Romania’s political landscape.
Original Source: www.eastbaytimes.com
