Romanian unrest: Thousands demand election redo in Bucharest
A massive demonstration occurred in Bucharest, during which thousands of people demanded a second round of presidential elections. The constitutional court annulled the results of the first round, which triggered the largest protest so far.
On Sunday, a huge demonstration passed through Bucharest, with participants calling for the second round of presidential elections. It was the largest protest against the decision of the constitutional court.
In December, the court annulled the results of the first round, in which pro-Russian candidate Călin Georgescu was victorious.
The protest was organised by the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR) party. Its leader, George Simion, declared that demonstrations will continue until the demands are met.
Up to 100,000 people on the streets
Police estimated the number of participants to be 20,000, although organisers claim there were up to 100,000.
- Our right to vote was broken. In addition, Iohannis was in power for ten years and did nothing for the people, while parties betrayed us, they are all corrupt. We want something else, - said Bogdan Danila, a 43-year-old lorry driver, to a reporter from a British agency.
- Authorities must say why they cancelled the election, we want to see the evidence. At this rate we won't be voting anymore, they will impose a leader like in the old days, - said Cornelia, a 57-year-old economist wrapped in the Romanian flag and declined to give her last name.
The constitutional court annulled the elections two days before the planned second round, citing manipulations in Georgescu's campaign.
The annulment of the first round of presidential elections in Romania deepened the political crisis in the country. The European Commission also initiated proceedings against TikTok on suspicion of violating EU law. The case involves the use of the platform for foreign interference in the course of the presidential elections.
The pro-European government coalition plans new elections in May. Protesters chanted slogans about freedom and demanded the restoration of the second round.
