Pro-EU contender secures Romanian presidential election rerun
(MENAFN) Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan, a pro-European Union candidate, has emerged victorious in Romania’s presidential election rerun, defeating right-wing Euroskeptic George Simion. According to the nearly complete vote count, Dan secured 54% of the ballots, while Simion received 46%.
Dan expressed gratitude to his supporters for what he called an “unprecedented mobilization,” and pledged to begin rebuilding Romania on the principles of unity, integrity, and respect for the law.
Simion, leader of the nationalist Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), initially refused to accept the results, declaring himself president in a social media post. However, he conceded hours later in a video message, acknowledging Dan’s win and stating, “We may have lost a battle, but we will not lose the war.”
Maia Sandu, Moldova’s pro-EU president, congratulated Dan on his victory, emphasizing the strong bond between Moldova and Romania and their shared commitment to a peaceful and democratic European future. Approximately 30% of Moldova’s population holds dual citizenship with Romania.
Simion's party alleged that Moldovan authorities and media unlawfully encouraged support for Dan among Moldovan-based voters. Officials in Chisinau have denied any involvement.
The election rerun followed a Constitutional Court ruling that annulled the November vote due to campaign irregularities and intelligence reports of alleged Russian interference—claims that Russia has denied. That initial vote was led by independent candidate Calin Georgescu, who received 23% of the vote.
Simion criticized the annulment as a “coup d’état” and previously stated he would appoint Georgescu as prime minister if elected.
In the first round of the rerun held on May 4, Simion led with 41%, while Dan and former senator Crin Antonescu each garnered about 20% of the vote.
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