Ilie Bolojan named Romania's new Prime Minister amid political turmoil and budget crisis
Nicusor Dan (Photo: AP)
Romanian President Nicusor Dan on Friday nominated Ilie Bolojan, leader of the pro-European National Liberal Party (PNL), as the country's next prime minister, ending weeks of political uncertainty following the annulled December presidential elections.
Bolojan, 56, currently Senate president, is known for his reformist credentials and administrative discipline. His appointment comes at a critical moment, with Romania facing a record-high budget deficit of 9.3% and lingering fears over foreign interference in its democratic institutions.
'Ilie Bolojan is best suited to make the necessary adjustments in the Romanian state apparatus,' President Dan said in a televised address.
Dan himself was elected in a May rerun, after the December vote was annulled amid allegations of Russian meddling.
The nomination must now be approved by parliament, which remains fragmented. Bolojan is expected to navigate a divided legislature while pursuing difficult economic reforms.
In a press conference last week, Bolojan acknowledged the challenges ahead.
'Romania is in a complicated situation. The new government will need to implement unpopular measures — including possible spending cuts and tax hikes.'
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