Călin Georgescu Officially Accused by Prosecutors: Criminal Offences

Călin Georgescu, a far-right presidential candidate in Romania, has been detained and taken into custody by police while in traffic and placed under criminal investigation by the Prosecutor General’s Office. This development significantly escalates the ongoing political controversy surrounding Georgescu’s campaign and activities.

Criminal Investigation and Charges vs. Calin Georgescu

On February 26, 2025, the Prosecutor General’s Office initiated criminal proceedings against Georgescu for several serious offences:

1. Instigating Actions Against the Constitutional Order: Georgescu is accused of instigating actions that could undermine the constitutional order, a serious offence under Romanian law.
2. Communicating False Information: He is also charged with spreading false information, including making false statements about his campaign financing or other matters.
3. False Declarations: Georgescu is accused of making false declarations regarding the sources of his campaign financing and his wealth.
4. Initiating a Fascist Organization: There are allegations that he initiated or supported a fascist organization, which is illegal under Romanian law.
5. Promoting Fascist Ideologies: Georgescu is accused of promoting fascist, legionary, racist, or xenophobic ideologies in public, which is prohibited by law.
6. Promoting Antisemitic Organizations: Additionally, he is accused of promoting or supporting antisemitic organizations.

Despite the criminal accusations, Georgescu was freed by the prosecutors under judicial control. He also has to avoid media appearances.

Georgescu’s campaign was marred by allegations of significant online support orchestrated by Russia, primarily through social media platforms. The Supreme Defense Council of Romania declassified documents suggesting that his campaign was aided by a “state actor,” though the specific country was not named. This led to cancelling the runoff election scheduled for December 8, 2024.

Public Reaction and Support

Despite these serious allegations, Georgescu continues to receive significant public support. George Simion, leader of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), has strongly backed Georgescu, viewing the legal actions as an attempt to block his future political candidacies. Simion has announced plans for protests in support of Georgescu, calling the actions against him “abuses” and demanding explanations from the Prosecutor General’s Office.

Elon Musk, the influential billionaire, has been involved in the controversy surrounding Georgescu. Musk has used his social media platforms to express support for Georgescu and criticize the annulment of the Romanian elections, which he described as undemocratic. 

The investigation into Călin Georgescu’s activities represents a critical moment in Romania’s ongoing political crisis. The charges against him underscore the deep divisions within Romanian society and the challenges facing its democratic institutions.

As Romania prepares for new elections, these developments will likely continue to shape the country’s political landscape and international perceptions.