Nikshul Dunn, the mayor of Bucharest, is poised to secure a significant victory in Romania’s presidential election, with almost all votes tallied at about 99%. According to election authorities, Dan leads in the second round, receiving around 54.2% of the votes in what seems to be a clash between “pro-western and anti-western Romania.”
The two-term mayor, known for his fight against corrupt real estate developments, emphasized that voters are looking for “functional national institutions, reduced corruption, a prosperous economy, and a society marked by dialogue rather than hatred.”
Simion claimed early on Monday that he had won the election, stating, “We may have lost the battle, but we certainly won’t lose the war,” in a post on social media platform X.
Political analyst Sergiu Mișcoiu anticipated potential protests but expressed doubt about Simion’s ability to challenge Dunn due to the noticeable gap in results. Supporters of Simion demonstrated on Sunday night, protesting against what they termed “fraud,” and called for “people protests” on Monday should there be attempts to “steal the Romanian people’s victory.”
Ukrainian President Voldymi Zelensky congratulated Dan for his “historic victory” via social media. The Romanian vote coincided with the first round of elections in Poland, where liberal candidate Rafal Truzaskovsky slightly edged out opponent Karol Naulocky, who is backed by the Nationalist Law and Justice Party.
In Portugal, the far-right Chega Party garnered 22% of the votes in the parliamentary elections but still fell behind the ruling Central Right Democrat Union party, which failed to secure a majority. These elections are being closely observed across Europe, given growing discontent among citizens regarding migration and living costs that could undermine European unity.
Analysts have characterized these elections as pivotal in Romania’s post-communist journey, influencing the nation’s strategic posture and economic future in the context of EU unity.
Simion had previously won the initial round on May 4, leading to a significant shift in Romania’s Central Social Democrats and Central Right Liberals. The incoming president will play a crucial role in selecting the next prime minister, impacting coalition dynamics.
Despite being a former soccer ultra and known for his radical far-right AUR party, Simion has garnered almost double the votes of his nearest rivals. Although recent polls suggest a tightening race, voter turnout during the first round was about 53%, increasing to nearly 65% in this round, largely driven by younger voters and Romanians abroad. Analysts noted that strong turnout could favor Dan.
This election serves as a rerun of a previous one won by Karin Georgek, who had to withdraw amid allegations of campaign finance misconduct and Russian interference. The Romanian Foreign Ministry on Sunday cited interventions through “viral campaigns” on social media platforms, attributing some of these to Russian influence.
Simion has suggested he would nominate Georgek, who has faced investigations related to various charges, if elected president. Romanian presidents have significant authority, particularly regarding foreign policy and national security, and can even dissolve Parliament under certain conditions.
At 55, Dan focused his campaign on combating rampant corruption and ensuring continued support for Ukraine, emphasizing Romania’s role as a logistical hub and its commitment to remaining an integral part of Europe. He has backing from the union to save Romania (USR), a pro-EU anti-corruption group he co-founded, and is expected to form a minority government with support from the PNL.
In a speech to enthusiastic supporters in Bucharest, Dan noted the challenges ahead while promising to start discussions on forming a new government. He acknowledged the tough times needed to “rebalance the economy,” urging patience and hope.
Simion, however, opposed further assistance to Ukraine and sharply criticized EU leadership. He has expressed a desire for Romania to stay in the EU and NATO while also seeking alliances with leaders like Hungary’s Viktor Orban and Slovakia’s Robert Fico, potentially posing as a counterweight.
Mujitaba Rahman from the Eurasia Group remarked that the results highlight a strong showing for European candidates, reflecting voters’ anxieties about political stability. The founder of the Telegram app, Pavel Durov, previously accused the French government of attempting to silence conservative Romanian voices during elections, which France has denied as baseless.
Additionally, Russian-born Doloff is under investigation in France for allegations of child abuse imagery and drug-related offenses linked to the app.
