Romania’s Presidential Candidate Călin Georgescu Taken into Custody by Police Amid Criminal Investigations

Călin Georgescu, a far-right presidential candidate in Romania, has been at the centre of political controversy following his unexpected victory in the first round of the presidential elections in November 2024. The Constitutional Court subsequently annulled the elections, claiming electoral irregularities and foreign interference allegations, which were never publicly displayed or presented.

Georgescu’s campaign was marked by allegations of significant online support orchestrated by Russia, primarily through the Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok. 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.

On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, Călin Georgescu was stopped in traffic and taken in for questioning by the Prosecutor General’s Office. This action follows a series of investigations into his supporters and financial backers, who have been accused of possessing illegal weapons and funds. The searches uncovered substantial money hidden in safes.

One of Georgescu’s bodyguards, Horațiu Potra, a former mercenary, was detained in December 2024 for violating weapons laws and public incitement. Potra and his associates were found with firearms, machetes, and other weapons that could disrupt public order. This incident highlighted concerns about the potential for violence and the involvement of armed groups in political activities.

Despite the controversies, Georgescu continues to receive significant public support. Thousands of protesters rallied in Bucharest to demand the resumption of the cancelled presidential runoff. Georgescu has maintained that the election was annulled illegally and has called for the restoration of democracy.

Georgescu’s campaign has been linked to Russian influence, with some of his associates reportedly having ties to the Wagner paramilitary group. These connections have raised concerns about foreign interference in Romanian politics and the potential destabilization of the region.

Political reactions to Calin Georgescu’s detainment

George Simion, the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR) leader, has consistently supported Călin Georgescu despite recent controversies. Following Georgescu’s detainment, Simion reiterated his commitment to backing Georgescu, emphasizing that abandoning him would be akin to betraying the Romanian people’s vote.

Simion has called for the repetition of the presidential elections from the second round, arguing that the annulment of the original election was unjust. He has also announced plans for protests, including a significant gathering on March 1, where Georgescu is expected to be present. Simion’s stance reflects AUR’s broader strategy to challenge the current political establishment and push for what they perceive as a return to democratic processes. Despite criticisms and legal challenges facing Georgescu, Simion remains steadfast in his support, viewing it as a matter of democratic principle and respect for the electoral outcome.

The ongoing investigations and public protests 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.