Romanian government faces no-confidence vote
The Romanian parliament will today vote on whether to oust the centrist government led by Prime Minister Ludovic Orban based on a no-confidence motion initiated by the main opposition, the Social Democratic Party (PSD).
The National Liberal Party’s (PNL) Orban replaced former PSD prime minister Viorica Dancila in October when parliament dismissed her after a narrowly lost confidence vote. Following up to its defeat in 2019, the PSD lost the May European elections, its former leader was imprisoned over his abuse of power and its controversial efforts to reform the judicial system sparked mounting protests.
Despite its weakened position, the PSD still remains the largest party in parliament. If it successfully appeals to the centre-left pro-Romania electorate in today’s vote, as well as the centre-right Alliance of Liberals and Democrats (ALDE), the PSD could oust Orban’s PNL. However, following two PSD members’ departure from the party after negotiations with the PNL, the PSD is concerned by the possibility that its members and allies may jump ship.
The results of today’s no-confidence vote will play a significant role in defining Romania’s political trajectory in the near future, especially in September’s local elections and December’s parliamentary elections. However, February polls indicate that public opinion is largely in favour of the PNL; so, expect the PNL to maintain its strong presence in Romanian politics in the short to medium-term, regardless of today’s outcome.
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