Unanimous Decision at PNL’s National Political Bureau
In an unanimous decision, members of the National Political Bureau of the PNL, led by Nicolae Ciucă, voted to initiate discussions within the coalition regarding the potential merger of this year’s elections.
Coalition Negotiation Team Mandated
During an internal session at the Parliament, PNL mandated a negotiation team to engage in discussions with PSD (Social Democratic Party) about the possibility of consolidating various elections. The move signifies a cooperative approach between the two political entities.
Ciucă’s Perspective and Options
PNL President Nicolae Ciucă, during a post-Bureau press conference, suggested the possibility of merging the European Parliament elections with the local elections, the first slated for this year. However, Ciucă emphasised that no decision is finalised, and alternative scenarios are still under consideration.
PSD’s Stance and Awaited Decision
Marcel Ciolacu, President of PSD, stated after the party’s internal meeting that no official decision regarding the election merger has been made. If negotiations with PNL prove successful, the entire election calendar will be swiftly established in the coming period.
Background and Coalition Dynamics
Sources from the PSD leadership had previously indicated agreement with the idea of merging local and European Parliament elections, contingent on a political agreement with PNL, even extending the collaboration to the presidential elections. Some voices within PSD proposed a scenario of a “10-year stability agreement,” where PSD would hold the presidency for the initial five years.
Four Types of Elections in 2024
Four types of elections are scheduled for 2024: European Parliament elections, local elections, parliamentary elections, and presidential elections, presenting a complex electoral landscape for Romania.
USR Critique and Concerns
Cătălin Drulă, President of USR, criticised the potential merger, considering it an assault on democracy orchestrated by PNL. He accused PNL and PSD of attempting to confuse the electorate and manipulate the voting process.
NGO Opposition and Electoral Chaos Concerns
Expert Forum and several other non-governmental organisations expressed opposition to the proposed election merger. They argued that such a move would limit voters’ rights, affect electoral competition, and undermine legal security principles. The organisations called for both PNL and PSD to abandon the proposal and organise elections in a manner consistent with constitutional principles and international standards.
Source: Libertatea, photo: Facebook
Editor: Andreea Gudin
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