Romania is currently facing a significant political crisis, the most severe since the fall of communism in 1989. The situation escalated after the Constitutional Court annulled the second round of the presidential elections, leading to a deep division in the country. The independent candidate, Calin Georgescu, has been definitively suspended from running, leaving George Simion, the leader of the AUR party, as the leading conservative candidate and a favorite to take the presidency.
George Simion has been a prominent figure in Romanian politics since 2020, serving as a member of the Chamber of Deputies and holding the position of vice-president of the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) party. Known for his activism for national causes, Simion is now at the forefront of the political scene as Romania prepares for new elections, scheduled five months after the annulment of the previous electoral process.
Simion describes the annulment and the suspension of Georgescu as a coup d’état, claiming that the ruling powers are manipulating the judicial system to maintain control. He argues that this pattern is not unique to Romania, citing similar narratives in Poland regarding potential electoral interference and drawing parallels with the political climate in France, where candidates like Marine Le Pen have faced legal challenges.
As Simion campaigns for the presidency, he emphasizes the need for free and fair elections, free from censorship. He warns of an impending wave of censorship under the Digital Services Act, which he believes aims to silence dissenting voices on social media platforms. Simion asserts that there has been no evidence of foreign interference, yet he fears that attempts will be made to undermine his movement.
In a recent interview, Simion expressed his commitment to restoring democracy in Romania. He believes that the upcoming elections are crucial for the country’s future and for the millions of Romanians living abroad. He aims to address pressing national issues, such as healthcare and education, to encourage the diaspora to consider returning home.
Simion looks to Italy’s center-right government under Giorgia Meloni as a model, praising its ability to balance national interests with European Union commitments. He envisions a Romania that respects its sovereignty while actively participating in international alliances.
As the situation unfolds, Simion’s campaign is gaining support from conservative leaders across Europe, reinforcing his message of unity among nationalists and sovereigntists. He urges all Romanians, both at home and abroad, to participate in the upcoming elections to help steer the country back towards democracy and stability.