Romania’s President Klaus Iohannis resigns ahead of election re-run due to pressure linked to accusations of Russian interference in the annulled elections. His resignation aims to prevent a political crisis as voters prepare for new elections set for May. The far-right party has gained significant support, and Iohannis’s departure marks a critical moment in the country’s political landscape.
On February 10, Romanian President Klaus Iohannis announced his resignation amidst mounting pressure as the country prepares for a re-run of presidential elections. The elections had been annulled due to allegations of Russian interference, raising concerns following a surprising victory by a far-right candidate in the first round. Though Iohannis initially intended to remain in office until a successor is elected in May, he decided to step down following a series of political challenges and the threat of suspension initiated by opposition MPs.
In his resignation statement, Iohannis expressed his desire to prevent further crises for Romania, stating, “In order to spare Romania and the Romanian citizens from crisis (…) I resign from the office of president of Romania.” He noted that his resignation would take effect on Wednesday and highlighted the potential internal and external repercussions of the political turmoil.
George Simion, leader of the far-right AUR party, commended Iohannis’s resignation, proclaiming, “It’s your [the people’s] victory! Now it’s time to get back round 2” via social media. This decision comes in the wake of considerable public protests against the annulment of the elections, which saw the far-right garner significant electoral support in recent months.
Having served as President since 2014, Iohannis has navigated multiple political crises. Ilie Bolojan, the Senate President and a liberal leader, is expected to take over the presidential role. The annulment of the last elections has escalated tensions in Romania, with some, like former Prime Minister Georgescu, criticizing the move as a “formalized coup d’état.”
New presidential elections are scheduled to occur in two rounds, with a first round on May 4 and a potential second round on May 18 if no candidate secures more than 50% of the votes. This unfolding situation indicates a significant shift in Romania’s political landscape, particularly in light of recent rising far-right influence.
Klaus Iohannis’s resignation reflects significant political pressure in Romania amid controversial election circumstances. His decision aims to avert further crisis as the nation faces the challenges of re-running elections initially voided due to allegations of Russian interference. The upcoming elections will be pivotal in shaping Romania’s political future, particularly given the far-right’s increased presence in recent electoral outcomes.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
