Iohannis Resigns as Romania’s President, Bolojan Takes Interim Role Until Elections

Klaus Iohannis has resigned as Romania’s president after over a decade, with Ilie Bolojan assuming the role of caretaker president until a new election is held in May. This change follows rising tensions with opposition groups aiming to oust Iohannis. The election process is set to begin with the first round on May 4, and a runoff on May 18, depending on the results.

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis has officially resigned after over a decade in office, paving the way for caretaker president Ilie Bolojan to assume his role until a new presidential election occurs in spring. This transition follows tensions with far-right populist opposition groups in Parliament, who escalated their efforts to remove Iohannis through legislative motions. Bolojan, prominent leader of the center-right National Liberal Party, will govern temporarily from Cotroceni Palace in Bucharest until the upcoming election in May 2023.

Bolojan, a former mayor, expressed his readiness to fulfill the responsibilities of acting president, emphasizing his commitment to maintain national stability and strengthen international relations. His appointment comes despite Iohannis’s presidency originally being set to conclude in December, which was extended after the Constitutional Court annulled a scheduled election due to significant political unrest and allegations of electoral misconduct.

The acting president’s powers are somewhat limited compared to the full presidential authority, which encompasses essential functions such as national security and foreign policy. Nevertheless, the new election procedures have been established, with the first round planned for May 4. Should no candidate achieve a majority, a runoff will occur on May 18, 2023. Current uncertainties exist regarding whether Calin Georgescu, previously a frontrunner, will participate in the election.

In summary, Klaus Iohannis has stepped down after ten years in power, leading to Ilie Bolojan’s interim presidency. This shift comes amidst political turmoil and opposition efforts to remove Iohannis from office. The upcoming presidential election is scheduled for May, presenting an opportunity for a new leader to emerge amidst uncertainties surrounding prior candidates.

Original Source: apnews.com