President Klaus Iohannis of Romania resigns before a re-run election following public pressure and criticism from far-right factions. The previous presidential election was annulled due to alleged Russian meddling. Protests erupted against the cancellation, leading Iohannis to step down to avoid divisive repercussions. His official resignation takes effect on Wednesday.
Romanian President Klaus Iohannis has announced his resignation ahead of a re-run of the presidential election that was cancelled last year under controversial circumstances. The decision came amidst growing pressure, particularly from far-right political factions, following the cancellation of December’s election due to allegations of interference from the Russian government, which were upheld by Romania’s highest court.
Initially, President Iohannis indicated that he would continue to serve until a successor was elected in May. However, this stance drew significant criticism from opposition parties, sparking protests across the country where tens of thousands of citizens voiced their discontent regarding the previous election’s annulment.
In light of the mounting pressure, Iohannis chose to resign in order to prevent what he described as a potentially “damaging” and divisive referendum for the nation. In his resignation statement, he expressed a desire to spare Romania from further political crises, asserting, “In order to spare Romania and the Romanian citizens from crisis… I resign from the office of president of Romania.” He is scheduled to officially conclude his presidency on Wednesday.
Klaus Iohannis’s early resignation as Romania’s President marks a significant political shift ahead of the anticipated election re-run. His decision to step down aims to alleviate tensions following the controversial cancellation of the previous election due to alleged foreign interference. This move reflects the pressures exerted by opposition and continues to showcase the volatile political landscape in Romania leading up to the upcoming vote.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
