Greg Stanton, a potential prime ministerial candidate of Romania, called for an immediate decision from the Social Democratic Party (PSD) regarding support for the new center-right government. He warned that failing to support this government could lead to an increase in the power of the far-right in the country.
Necessity of Supporting the New Government
Stanton stated in an interview that he wants the Social Democratic Party to support the National Liberal Party (PNL) in the new vote expected to take place by the end of next week. While the PSD leadership has refrained from this action so far, Stanton emphasized that the party must choose between supporting a pro-European government and collaborating with the far-right.
Risk of Early Elections
Stanton, who is the third person tasked with forming a government since the ruling coalition's defeat in the no-confidence vote in May, stated that if he fails to form a government, early elections in Romania will be inevitable. Currently, the far-right is leading in the polls, raising concerns about its impact on the country's political future.
Sorin Grindeanu, the leader of PSD, announced that the group will not vote for Stanton's government and will only support a government in which it is part. He also hinted at the possibility of collaboration with the far-right coalition “Alliance for the Union of Romanians” (AUR), a group that is strongly opposed to Brussels and supports pro-Russian candidates.
Stanton also called on the leadership of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in Brussels to prevent this situation from occurring. He warned that if this collaboration continues, the credibility of this group will be severely affected.
Grindeanu also indicated that PSD might be willing to negotiate with Stanton under certain conditions, provided that the party's key proposals in the areas of energy infrastructure, national security, and investment in public services and education are considered.
If the proposed cabinet and policy programs are rejected, President Nicolae Ciucă may issue an order for new elections. In this regard, Stanton stated that early elections are not a desirable option, but must be considered if he fails to form a government.
