Romanian far-right populist Calin Georgescu is appealing a barring from the presidential election rerun, which follows a prior annulment due to electoral violations. Protests erupted in response to this decision, as allegations of Russian interference cloud his candidacy. The elections are scheduled for May 4, with a runoff on May 18 if necessary.
Calin Georgescu, a Romanian far-right populist, has been barred from participating in the rerun of the presidential election. He plans to appeal this decision at Romania’s Constitutional Court. This comes after he won the first round last year, but a subsequent court ruling annulled the election based on electoral violations and Russian campaign interference accusations.
Georgescu’s appeal will be lodged in Bucharest, following a rejection of his candidacy by the Central Election Bureau. His close ally, George Simion, criticized this rejection as illegitimate, asserting that all necessary documents were submitted. Simion, leader of the far-right Alliance for the Unity of Romanians, acknowledged the slim chances of success but expressed determination to support Georgescu’s candidacy.
The Bureau stated it deemed Georgescu ineligible for the rerun due to the annulment of the previous election results amid allegations of mismanagement and foreign influence. Georgescu labeled the situation a significant threat to democracy, claiming that Romania is under a form of tyranny.
Supporters of Georgescu protested in Bucharest following the announcement, voicing their displeasure through chants and demonstrations that escalated to violence against law enforcement. In a subsequent appeal for calm, Georgescu urged his supporters to refrain from violent acts.
The political turmoil in Romania was exacerbated last month when prosecutors initiated a criminal investigation against him, alleging incitement against the constitutional order among other crimes. Despite polling low and being under judicial scrutiny, Georgescu had previously denied any misconduct. The presidential elections are set for May 4, with a runoff on May 18 if necessary, and candidacy applications are due by March 15.
Calin Georgescu faces significant political hurdles as he appeals a decision barring him from Romania’s presidential election rerun. His plans stem from a controversial annulment of a prior election round, citing electoral violations. The situation has incited protests and further investigations. The upcoming elections are critical for the political landscape in Romania as they approach key deadlines.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
