Surprise Lead for Hard-Right Populist in Romania’s Presidential Race

Calin Georgescu, a hard-right populist, surprisingly leads the Romanian presidential election with nearly 23 percent of the vote. Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu follows with around 20 percent, set for a run-off on December 8. Georgescu’s positions have raised concerns about Romania’s pro-European stance and NATO membership, amidst ongoing economic challenges and tension with Russia.

In a surprising turn of events, Calin Georgescu, a hard-right populist, has taken the lead in Romania’s presidential election, challenging the nation’s pro-European stance. With about 98 percent of ballots counted, Georgescu garnered nearly 23 percent of the vote, while centre-left Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu followed closely with around 20 percent, according to partial results from the Central Electoral Bureau. This unexpected outcome positions Georgescu for a run-off against Ciolacu, scheduled for December 8.

Georgescu, who has criticized both the European Union and NATO, had previously polled at merely 5 percent prior to the election. His campaign has been largely conducted through social media, particularly TikTok, a platform on which he has managed to reach a significant number of voters. Meanwhile, Elena Lasconi, representing the centre-right Save Romania Union party, ranked third with nearly 19 percent, followed by George Simion of the far-right Alliance for the Unity of Romanians with 14 percent.

The results are significant, particularly as they reflect a possible shift in public sentiment amid economic challenges and increasing cost of living. Georgescu’s controversial proposals, such as ending support for Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia and questioning NATO’s protective capabilities, have drawn attention. Furthermore, his remarks regarding Romania’s historical figures have ignited debate. After the results were announced, Georgescu declared that the election is a manifestation of the populace’s demand for peace, stating that the people had “cried out for peace” loudly.

This presidential election in Romania is crucial for both the domestic political landscape and the country’s foreign policy alignment. Romania, a member of NATO and the EU, has historically demonstrated a pro-Western position, especially in the wake of Russia’s aggression toward Ukraine. The rising support for a hard-right candidate reflects growing discontent with the status quo, influenced by economic factors and national sovereignty debates. Calin Georgescu’s positions, which involve challenging the support for Ukraine and NATO’s role in Romania, signal a potential shift in Romania’s strategic alliances and international posture.

Calin Georgescu’s lead in Romania’s presidential election marks a significant moment in the country’s political trajectory, suggesting a potential pivot away from its traditionally pro-European and pro-NATO alignment. His success is attributed to his engagement on social media and the resonance of his campaign messages amidst economic struggles. As the nation prepares for a run-off vote, the decisions made by Romanian voters could reshape not only domestic policy but also Romania’s position in broader geopolitical discussions regarding Eastern Europe.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com