Thousands of protesters filled the streets of Bucharest, Romania, on Saturday, rallying in favor of C?lin Georgescu, a far-right populist who was leading in the presidential election race until it was abruptly annulled just before the second round.
Demonstrators waved the national flag, featuring Romania’s signature blue, yellow, and red colors, while others held signs with messages such as “President Georgescu” and “We demand the second round to be reinstated.” The election is scheduled to occur anew in May; however, there are calls from many to revive the previously canceled contest.
The protests were triggered by an unprecedented decision from the Constitutional Court, which voided the election just two days ahead of a scheduled Dec. 8 runoff. Georgescu stunned observers by winning the first round on Nov. 24, despite previously being positioned in single digits with no documented campaign expenditures, leading to accusations of electoral misconduct and possible foreign interference.
At 62 years old, Georgescu has previously commended Russian President Vladimir Putin, labeling him “a man who loves his country,” and referred to Ukraine as “an invented state.” He has consistently denied any allegations of wrongdoing, asserting that the cancellation of the election was “illegal and unconstitutional.”
“Democracy will return … We are the allies, we are the people, we have the power!” Georgescu conveyed through his X account during the rally where he made a brief appearance.
This demonstration also followed sharp criticisms from U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who, in two recent statements, condemned Romania for the cancellation of the elections, which he characterized as being decided on “fragile suspicions” amid “huge pressure” from neighboring countries in Europe.
One sign at the rally acknowledged Vance’s remarks, stating: “Thank you J.D. Vance … for your support.”
The annulment of the presidential race in December has left the EU and NATO member nation in chaos and came on the heels of other controversies, including a recount of votes from the first round of voting.
Now, new election dates have been confirmed, with the first round aiming for May 4. Should no candidate secure more than 50% of the vote, a runoff is planned for two weeks later on May 18. As of now, it remains uncertain whether Georgescu will be eligible to participate in the upcoming elections.
Supporters from the far-right political faction, the Alliance for the Unity of Romanians, joined the protests to gather signatures in support of Georgescu’s candidacy.
