Romanian Prime Minister Resigns

Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu has officially announced his resignation, marking a significant political shift just days after the first round of the country’s presidential elections.

His departure comes as the Social Democratic Party (PSD), which he leads, withdraws from the governing coalition.

According to Romanian news outlet G4Media, Ciolacu had previously discussed his intention to step down in a meeting with Acting President Ilie Bolojan.

The Romanian government is now preparing for an interim leadership transition, with Education Minister Daniel David, Deputy Prime Minister Marian Neacșu, and Interior Minister Cătălin Predoiu listed as potential candidates for the caretaker role.

Ciolacu’s resignation adds new uncertainty to Romania’s political landscape, already tense following Sunday’s presidential vote. According to the Central Electoral Commission, George Simion, leader of the nationalist opposition party, is leading with 41 percent of the vote.

Bucharest Mayor Nicușor Dan follows with 21 percent, while the ruling coalition’s candidate, Crin Antonescu, secured 20.1 percent, placing third.

Eleven candidates are vying for the presidency. Under Romanian election law, a candidate must receive more than 50 percent of the vote to win outright. With no candidate achieving this threshold, a second round of voting is scheduled for May 18.

Ciolacu’s resignation and the PSD’s exit from the ruling coalition are expected to influence the final stages of the presidential race, potentially reshaping alliances and voter dynamics.

The upcoming runoff will determine the future direction of Romania’s domestic and foreign policy during a period marked by both regional instability and internal political realignment.