Bucharest Mayor Runs for Romanian Presidency

On December 16, 2024, Nicușor Dan, the current Mayor of Bucharest, officially declared his intention to run for the presidency of Romania as an independent candidate in the upcoming 2025 elections. This announcement comes at a critical juncture for the country, following the recent annulment of presidential elections by the Constitutional Court due to allegations of foreign interference.

A Call for Change

During a press conference at the Bucharest City Hall, Dan emphasized that Romania is facing its most challenging moment since the 1989 Revolution. He expressed concerns about the pervasive deception in politics and underscored the need for fundamental changes in how the state addresses citizens’ needs. His candidacy echoes a similar independent run he undertook successfully for mayor in 2020, where he garnered significant support. Dan outlined three major issues he aims to tackle if elected president:

Corruption and Institutional Integrity: He highlighted the importance of restoring public trust in government institutions.

Lack of Direction: Dan criticized the absence of a clear vision for Romania’s future, asserting that leadership must prioritize public interests over those of special interest groups.

Social Division: He highlighted the growing divisions among different socio-cultural groups in Romania and emphasized the need for unity and healing within society.

While running independently, Dan expressed openness to discussions with pro-European parties to seek their support. This collaborative approach aims to foster a united front against extremist candidates who may threaten Romania’s democratic values.

Context of Nicusor Dan’s Presidency

Nicușor Dan’s candidacy is significant given his popularity as mayor, where he won re-election with approximately 46% of the vote earlier this year. His previous experience includes founding a liberal party that later became part of the Save Romania Union (USR), one of the country’s major political parties. The upcoming presidential elections are particularly crucial as they follow a tumultuous electoral period marked by allegations against candidates and external influences.

In an unprecedented decision, the Romanian Constitutional Court cancelled the first round of the Romanian presidential elections after the independent candidate Calin Georgescu made the most significant voting upset in the last 35 years. His surprising top position for the second round of the elections made the political parties and institutions question his methods and also insinuate TikTok’s involvement in the political strategy of some called “the candidate of the Romanian people”.

As Dan prepares for his campaign, he must gather 200,000 supporting signatures to register his candidacy officially. He is not required to resign as mayor during this process but may take a leave of absence.

Nicușor Dan’s entry into the presidential race signals a potential shift in Romanian politics as voters seek leaders committed to reform and transparency. With his activism and local governance background, Dan aims to present a viable alternative to traditional political figures, advocating for a Romania that prioritizes public welfare over private interests.