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3w ago

Romania Enters Political Uncertainty as Interim Prime Minister Appointed

Catalin Predoiu assumes limited powers following Prime Minister Ciolacu’s resignation and the collapse of the governing coalition.

FILE - A Romanian policeman holds effigies made of brooms of Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, right, and Interior Minister Catalin Predoiu, left, during a protest in Bucharest, Romania, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda, File)
FILE - Romanian Interior Minister Catalin Predoiu speaks to the media at the European Council building in Brussels, Dec 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Omar Havana, File)
Supporters watch Leader of the radical right Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR) George Simion speak on a screen following the exit poll results during the Romanian presidential election, outside the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR) headquarters in Bucharest, Romania, May 4, 2025. REUTERS/Louisa Gouliamaki/File Photo
Presidential candidate George Simion, the leader of the Alliance for the Unity of Romanians (AUR) speaks during an interview in Bucharest, Romania, Tuesday, May 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda)

Overview

  • Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu resigned after the ruling coalition’s candidate failed to advance in the presidential election rerun.
  • The Social Democratic Party (PSD) announced its withdrawal from the governing coalition, citing a loss of legitimacy.
  • Interim President Ilie Bolojan appointed Catalin Predoiu, the interior minister and member of the National Liberal Party (PNL), as interim prime minister for up to 45 days.
  • Predoiu’s interim government is restricted to managing routine affairs while coalition partners negotiate new governance arrangements.
  • The May 18 presidential runoff will pit far-right nationalist George Simion against pro-European reformist Nicusor Dan, with significant implications for Romania's EU and NATO alignment.