Image Source : The Guardian
A pro-Russia candidate, Călin Georgescu, has taken the lead in the Romanian presidential polls, sending shockwaves through the country’s political landscape. This unexpected turn of events has been described as a “political earthquake” . Georgescu, a far-right former member of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), has been running as an independent candidate, primarily using TikTok to campaign.
The current Prime Minister, Marcel Ciolacu, who is known for his pro-EU stance, has failed to make it to the second round of the elections. This outcome has significant implications for Romania’s relationships with the European Union and Russia. The second round of the elections is scheduled to take place on December 8, 2024, where Georgescu will face off against Elena Lasconi, the candidate from the Save Romania Union (USR) .
Georgescu’s lead in the polls has raised concerns about the potential shift in Romania’s foreign policy, particularly with regards to its relationship with Russia. His campaign has focused on rebuilding Romania, with the slogan “Refacem România” (We are rebuilding Romania) . The outcome of the elections will have significant implications for Romania’s future, both domestically and internationally.
