Calin Georgescu to Challenge Ban on Romanian Presidential Candidacy

Calin Georgescu, a pro-Russian candidate barred from Romania’s presidential election, plans to appeal the exclusion after violent protests erupted in Bucharest. The Central Electoral Bureau’s decision has heightened tensions, with Georgescu claiming it signals a shift towards dictatorship. If upheld, his disqualification could leave ultranationalist parties without representation in the election.

Calin Georgescu, a pro-Russian candidate, plans to contest his exclusion from Romania’s upcoming presidential election set for May. Following a court’s decision disqualifying him, Georgescu announced via social media that he would appeal to the Constitutional Court to overturn the ban. This announcement comes in the wake of violent protests in Bucharest involving clashes between his supporters and law enforcement.

The appeal and unrest occurred after the Central Electoral Bureau (BEC) disqualified Georgescu’s candidacy on a previous Sunday. Following this decision, his supporters gathered outside the electoral commission’s headquarters, leading to violent altercations as demonstrators breached security barriers, overturned a rival-affiliated vehicle, and initiated fires. In response, police utilized tear gas as riots escalated with projectiles being thrown.

Moreover, social media claims suggested Romania is in turmoil, with concerns that such unrest could lead to a revolution or border closures. CBS News characterized the situation as Romania falling into “chaos.” However, the reported violence was contained, and the size of the protests was relatively small.

Georgescu, facing criminal investigations on multiple charges, including disseminating false information about campaign financing, argued that the BEC’s ruling reflects a drift towards dictatorship in Europe. He warned that a collapse of democracy in Romania could have global implications. If his disqualification is upheld, the ultranationalist parties supporting him—together holding 35 percent of parliamentary seats—risk lacking a candidate in the election.

In summary, Calin Georgescu is contesting his disqualification from Romania’s presidential election, claiming it undermines democratic principles. His appeal follows significant unrest in Bucharest, marked by violent clashes between his supporters and authorities. Amidst broader concerns regarding Romania’s political landscape, the outcome of this situation may hold substantial consequences for the parties involved and the integrity of democracy in Romania.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com