Official announcements from the coalition parties and Romanian news outlets

Romanian President Iohannis Appoints Marcel Ciolacu as Prime Minister with 240 Votes in Favor; Crin Antonescu Named Candidate

Dec 23, 2024, 10:56 AM

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis has officially designated Marcel Ciolacu, leader of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), to form a new government following recent parliamentary elections. This decision comes after consultations with various political parties, including the National Liberal Party (PNL) and the Hungarian minority party UDMR, which are part of a newly-formed pro-European coalition. The coalition aims to stabilize the country amid a significant political crisis. In addition, Crin Antonescu has been proposed as the joint candidate for the presidency by the coalition, which includes PSD, PNL, UDMR, and national minority groups. The coalition's agreement is seen as a strategic move to counter the rising influence of far-right parties in Romania. The government formed by Ciolacu is expected to focus on maintaining Romania's pro-European stance and addressing pressing political challenges. The new cabinet has already received parliamentary approval, with 240 votes in favor, 143 against, and 83 abstentions.