Romanian protesters demand presidential election go ahead

Cancellation of presidential election

Romania’s top court cancelled the presidential election on December 6, just two days before the second-round vote, after it was revealed that frontrunner Calin Georgescu had been the subject of an unfair social media campaign, allegedly orchestrated by Russia. The court ordered a re-run of the entire election, though the pro-European coalition government has yet to confirm the new election dates, although May 4 and May 18 have been tentatively agreed upon.

Protesters call for democracy and accountability

The protest was organiسed by the opposition hard-right Alliance for Uniting Romanians (AUR), Romania's second-largest party, and drew tens of thousands of demonstrators. Protesters marched to demand that the election resume and that Iohannis resign, as his term officially expired on December 21.

"We ask for a return to democracy by resuming the election with the second round," said AUR leader George Simion.

Diverse reasons for discontent

Protesters, including left-wingers and those upset by the election's cancellation, chanted slogans like "Freedom" and "Bring back the second round." Some carried portraits of Georgescu, a critic of NATO, while others waved Romanian flags and carried Orthodox Christian icons.

Protesters expressed frustration with the cancelled election and the lack of transparency, demanding that authorities provide evidence for the decision. Many cited a lack of action by Iohannis during his ten-year term and the perceived corruption of political parties.

Uncertainty surrounding Georgescu's candidacy

It remains unclear whether Georgescu, who opposes Romanian support for Ukraine in its war against Russia, will be allowed to run for president again, further adding to the political uncertainty in the country.