Romania has officially set the dates for key upcoming elections following a period of intense bickering within the ruling parties. Scheduled for later this year, the presidential election to succeed President Klaus Iohannis is slated for November 24, with a second round potentially taking place on December 8. Simultaneously, parliamentary elections to determine the composition of the next government will be held on December 1, aligning with Romania's national day.
Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu's cabinet is poised to approve the election decree on Thursday, aiming to bring an end to the disputes that have plagued the government recently. The ruling coalition between Ciolacu's Social Democrats and the National Liberal Party has been shaken by disagreements over the timing of the elections. Initially proposed for September, the Liberals argued that more time was needed for comprehensive discussions, leading to the current compromise.
While the main candidates for the elections have not yet been announced by the parties, speculation is rife. The Social Democrats are considering holding a congress to select their nominee. A notable potential contender for the presidency is Mircea Geoana, the current NATO Deputy Secretary General and a former leader of the Social Democrats. Geoana is reportedly planning to run as an independent candidate. Recent polling data suggests that Geoana stands as a strong contender, with the potential to secure victory in the second round regardless of the opposing candidate. The upcoming elections in Romania promise to be crucial in determining the future direction of the nation's governance.