Romanian Electoral Authority Denies Far-Right Candidate’s Bid in Elections
Romania’s election authority rejected Calin Georgescu’s candidacy for the presidential election redo, following previous annulment allegations related to Russian interference. Reacting strongly, Georgescu condemned the decision as an affront to democracy. A criminal investigation is underway against him as he prepares for imminent elections scheduled for May 4, 2025.
Romania’s election authority has officially rejected the candidacy of far-right populist Calin Georgescu for the upcoming presidential election redo. Georgescu previously secured a leading position in the first round of elections last year, which were subsequently annulled by the Constitutional Court due to claims of electoral misconduct.
Georgescu submitted his candidacy on Friday in Bucharest, but the Central Election Bureau (BEC) had 48 hours to either confirm or reject it. The specific reasons for the rejection remain unclear, as the BEC announced that the full rationale would be made available on its website. An appeal can be made at the Constitutional Court within 24 hours of the decision.
In response to the rejection, Georgescu lamented that it represented “a direct blow to the heart of democracy worldwide” and further criticized Europe, asserting that Romania was under a form of tyranny. He emphatically stated, “If democracy in Romania falls, the entire democratic world will fall!”
The BEC’s decision follows the annulment of the initial election results just prior to the December runoff, amid allegations of a Russian-backed campaign supporting Georgescu’s independent candidacy. In a related development, prosecutors have initiated a criminal investigation regarding Georgescu, citing charges related to incitement and support for fascist groups.
Despite being under judicial scrutiny, Georgescu has denied any misconduct and criticized allegations of electoral violations and foreign interference. His earlier polling numbers remained low, and claims of zero campaign expenditure were also made despite opposing assertions regarding his funding.
The rescheduled first round of elections is set for May 4, with a runoff anticipated on May 18, should no candidate achieve the necessary majority. The deadline for submitting presidential applications concludes on March 15 at midnight.
George Simion, leader of the far-right Alliance for the Unity of Romanians, expressed his discontent with the BEC’s ruling, labeling it a continuation of a coup d’état and rallying against Prime Minister Ciolacu. Prominent figures, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Elon Musk, have voiced support for Georgescu, criticizing the annulment of the election and the subsequent decision of the BEC.
The rejection of Calin Georgescu’s candidacy highlights significant turbulence within Romania’s electoral landscape, influenced by allegations of misconduct and external manipulations. As the upcoming election proceeds, the political atmosphere remains charged with controversy and far-right support, raising questions about the integrity of democratic processes in the country.
Original Source: kstp.com
