Protests Break Out in Bucharest Over Georgescu’s Election Ban
A wave of protests swept through downtown Bucharest after the Central Electoral Bureau decided to ban Russian-backed politician Calin Georgescu from running in the upcoming re-run presidential elections. Georgescu, who has been openly supported by the Russian and U.S. administrations, called the decision a “direct hit against democracy.”
The protests began on March 9, with Georgescu’s supporters setting fire to streets and throwing bottles, stones, and firecrackers at police. Riot police responded with tear gas.
Georgescu won the first round of the vote in November 2024, but the result was annulled due to foreign interference in the election process. The Constitutional Court had previously canceled the previous round of voting and banned another Russian-backed candidate, Diana Sosoaca.
The Central Electoral Bureau cited technical irregularities in Georgescu’s application as the reason for his ban. Georgescu plans to appeal the decision, and the Constitutional Court will have the final say on his expulsion from the race.
Journalist Magda Gradinaru told Kyiv Independent that “Romania’s secret services failed in their goal of preventing this crisis and they will need to be reformed.” She also warned that “this may just be the beginning of a crisis that Romania needs to face.”
Far-right groups still aim to win despite Georgescu’s ban
Despite the ban, far-right groups are still determined to win the election. The Russian Federation has been accused of plotting against Romania’s state sovereignty, and six people were arrested for allegedly being part of a military organization attempting to overthrow the government with help from Russia.
Analyst Armand Gosu told Kyiv Independent that “if eliminating the entire network is not possible, at least beheading these groups would avoid further existential threats.” He also warned that Romania is seen as the EU’s weak link that can easily be broken.
However, swift action against Georgescu and his associates showed that Romanian authorities are still eager to fight back. Acting President Ilie Bolojan and Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan are gaining popularity and may challenge the far-right at the ballot.
Gradinaru said that “Bolojan and Dan can re-legitimize institutions and the democratic process.” The crisis has also catapulted new faces that are now set to challenge the far-right at the ballot.