Unrest in Bucharest Following Rejection of Calin Georgescu’s Presidential Candidacy

Supporters of far-right populist Calin Georgescu protested in Bucharest after his presidential candidacy was rejected by the Central Election Bureau. Citing non-compliance with electoral regulations, the Bureau’s decision can be appealed but has sparked significant unrest. Georgescu and his supporters claim the decision undermines democracy, while the political landscape grows increasingly chaotic ahead of the May elections.

Chaos erupted in Bucharest as supporters of far-right populist Calin Georgescu protested the Central Election Bureau’s decision to reject his candidacy in the upcoming presidential election redo. Georgescu had previously won the first round of last year’s election, which was annulled by the country’s Constitutional Court. The Bureau’s rejection cited non-compliance with electoral regulations as the basis for its ruling.

The Bureau’s decision, announced shortly after Georgescu submitted his candidacy, allows for an appeal to the Constitutional Court within a 24-hour period. The reactions to this decision saw hundreds gathering outside the Bureau’s headquarters, expressing outrage with chants and physical protests, including throwing objects at the riot police present.

Georgescu described the Bureau’s actions as “a direct blow to the heart of democracy worldwide,” warning that the implications extend beyond Romania. He stated that the failure of democracy in Romania could lead to broader democratic repercussions globally.

The Bureau’s decision followed a tumultuous political landscape marked by a previous annulment of election results due to accusations of a Russian-led campaign promoting Georgescu’s candidacy. The political turmoil has drawn attention to rising concerns about foreign interference and the integrity of Romania’s electoral process.

Last month, Georgescu faced a criminal investigation for alleged incitement and support of fascist groups, amidst claims of electoral misconduct. Notably, he has garnered some support from global figures while professing not to be pro-Russia despite past praises of President Vladimir Putin.

The new election is scheduled for May 4, with a runoff on May 18, should no candidate achieve a majority. The deadline for candidacy applications is set for March 15 at midnight, amidst significant ongoing political tensions in the country.

Various political figures have reacted to the chaotic situation, with George Simion of the Alliance for the Unity of Romanians condemning the Bureau’s decision as a continuation of a coup d’état. Some, including incumbent mayor Nicusor Dan and prospective candidate Crin Antonescu, have proceeded with their candidacies, signaling a deeply divided political atmosphere.

In summary, the recent unrest in Bucharest highlights the volatile nature of Romania’s political climate following the rejection of Calin Georgescu’s candidacy for the presidential redo. With protests erupting against governmental decisions and forthcoming elections scheduled for May, the complex interplay of internal and external influences continues to challenge Romania’s democratic processes. As calls for change intensify, the future of governance in Romania remains uncertain amidst allegations of electoral violations and foreign interference.

Original Source: www.wdio.com