Romanian far-right populist, Calin Georgescu, is locked in a battle to overturn a ban preventing him from running in the upcoming presidential elections. The Central Electoral Bureau (BEC) announced the disqualification last Sunday, claiming Georgescu violated democratic principles. His appeal will be heard by constitutional court judges on Tuesday, with a ruling expected by day's end.
Georgescu, who gained prominence following controversial election results last year, criticized the BEC’s move, insisting it exceeded its legal powers. He argues that the previous electoral ruling, which annulled the first round of voting due to alleged Russian interference through social media, shouldn’t impact his candidacy. In a passionate social media message, he called the ban a significant blow to democracy.
The decision ignited chaos in Bucharest as thousands of Georgescu’s supporters clashed with police outside the electoral office, leading to property damage and multiple arrests. He later expressed gratitude towards his supporters while urging them to eschew violence, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution.
As protests continued on Monday, participants voiced their discontent with the ruling elite, labeling them corrupt and disconnected from the public’s needs. Many of them rallied behind Georgescu's cause, urging for his candidacy to be restored, symbolizing a broader disillusionment with the current political landscape.
George Simion, a key supporter and leader of the far-right Alliance for Uniting Romanians party, described the situation as a coup, facing scrutiny from authorities for inciting violence. Meanwhile, Georgescu's controversial rise has drawn global attention, including comments from U.S. figures expressing concern over democracy in Romania.
