Romania’s constitutional court has annulled the first round of the presidential election, citing foreign interference allegations. This decision follows the declassification of intelligence suggesting that Russia ran a coordinated social media campaign to promote far-right candidate Călin Georgescu. The ruling requires the election to be fully re-run, marking a pivotal moment for Romania’s democracy.
Allegations of Russian Influence in the Election
President Klaus Iohannis recently declassified intelligence that accused Russia of using social media platforms to manipulate the election. The intelligence alleged that thousands of fake accounts coordinated efforts on TikTok and Telegram to promote Georgescu. Paid promotions and algorithm manipulation reportedly amplified his visibility despite his status as a political outsider with no declared campaign spending.
Georgescu, a far-right candidate advocating for ending Romanian support for Ukraine, shocked the nation by leading the first round. Before the November 24 vote, he had polled in the single digits. His sudden rise prompted widespread concerns about foreign interference in the election of the NATO and EU member state.
Despite these allegations, Moscow denied involvement, and TikTok stated it did not provide special treatment to Georgescu. However, Romanian authorities described the interference as “aggressive hybrid Russian attacks.” The court subsequently voided the results and canceled the December 10 runoff election.
Political and Public Responses to the Annulment
Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu supported the court’s decision, calling it the only correct response to the interference allegations. He emphasized the importance of protecting Romania’s democratic integrity and ensuring free and fair elections.
Elena Lasconi, Georgescu’s opponent and a pro-European candidate, strongly criticized the court’s ruling. She described the decision as “illegal and amoral” and said it undermined democracy and voter rights.
The annulment triggered protests in Bucharest, with thousands of demonstrators gathering to show support for democracy. Protesters, including artists, musicians, and civic leaders, called for unity with Europe and rejected far-right ideologies. They chanted slogans such as “Europe!” and “No Fascism” and carried banners with messages like “Democracy is in danger” and “Our children will be free.”
Growing Far-Right Influence and Its Implications
Georgescu’s rise reflects broader political shifts in Romania. Far-right parties performed well in recent parliamentary elections, gaining momentum despite economic and social challenges. However, the pro-European Social Democrats emerged as the largest party and are expected to form a coalition government.
If elected, Georgescu’s leadership could have pulled Romania away from its traditional pro-Western alignment. His presidency might have aligned the country with nations like Hungary and Slovakia, where far-right, Russia-friendly politicians have gained significant power.
An AtlasIntel poll conducted after the interference revelations showed a tight race between the candidates. Lasconi led Georgescu by a narrow margin, with 48.6% support compared to Georgescu’s 46.4%. The data reflected a deeply divided electorate, with inflation and the Ukraine war fueling discontent among voters.
Romania’s Next Steps
Romania now faces the challenge of restoring trust in its electoral system and reinforcing its democratic values. The government must set a new election date and ensure a transparent process for the re-run.
Although the presidency is largely ceremonial, it carries significant moral authority and influence over foreign policy. The president also appoints the prime minister, a key position in Romania’s fragmented parliament.
In addition to political challenges, prosecutors have launched a money-laundering investigation against Georgescu. This development adds another layer of complexity to his political future.
Romania’s response to these events will shape its commitment to democracy, its role in the EU and NATO, and its resilience against external interference. As the nation prepares for a re-run of the election, the stakes remain high for its democratic and geopolitical future.
