Calin Georgescu, a far-right candidate, has filed for candidacy in the rerun of Romania’s presidential elections after his initial victory was annulled. Hundreds of supporters rallied as he declared the annulment a coup against democracy. His participation remains uncertain due to ongoing legal issues. The first round is scheduled for May 4, with a runoff if necessary, while incumbent Bucharest mayor Nicusor Dan also announced his candidacy.
Calin Georgescu, the far-right candidate, has registered to run in the rerun of Romania’s annulled presidential election. His initial victory in the first round was invalidated by the Constitutional Court after allegations of a coordinated Russian online campaign. On March 7, 2025, as Georgescu arrived at the Central Election Bureau in Bucharest, he was met by hundreds of supporters who brandished Romanian flags, chanting slogans that expressed their fervor for change.
Georgescu described the court’s annulment as an “officialized coup” against democracy. During a statement to the media, he proclaimed, “On December 6 … democracy was killed. Today … the Romanian people were resurrected.” He further stated he submitted a candidacy file containing over 324,000 signatures, emphasizing the public’s desire to protect democracy and free expression.
Georgescu faces uncertainty regarding his participation in the upcoming election, as prosecutors have initiated a criminal investigation against him for inciting actions against the constitutional order, supporting fascist groups, and making false declarations regarding campaign funding. The first round of the rerun is set for May 4, with a subsequent runoff on May 18 if no candidate secures a majority.
Aside from Georgescu, the incumbent mayor of Bucharest, Nicusor Dan, also submitted his candidacy under the slogan “Honest Romania.” Georgescu’s political fortunes have changed since the initial election was scrapped, attracting notable support from high-profile figures such as U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Elon Musk, who have publicly criticized the annulment of the election results.
In conclusion, Calin Georgescu’s candidacy in the rerun of Romania’s presidential election highlights the tensions surrounding the original annulled results. His claims against the ruling elite and his allegations of electoral interference reflect deeper political divisions. The upcoming election on May 4, along with the accompanying criminal investigation into Georgescu, will likely shape the future political landscape in Romania while garnering international scrutiny.
Original Source: apnews.com
