Protesters Rally Behind Far-Right Populist Calin Georgescu

Thousands gathered in Bucharest to support Calin Georgescu, the far-right populist, after Romania's annulled presidential election. The Constitutional Court's move to cancel the election stirred controversy, with allegations of electoral violations and Russian interference. US VP JD Vance criticized Romania's actions amid renewed election plans for May.

Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of Bucharest over the weekend to show their support for far-right populist Calin Georgescu, whose surprising lead in last year's annulled presidential race remains contentious. The presidential election, initially set for a second-round runoff, was halted by Romania's Constitutional Court days before the intended date, causing widespread controversy.

Participants in the rally waved Romania's national colors and carried signs demanding a resumption of the electoral process with slogans like "President Georgescu". The election, now rescheduled for May, has sparked debates as some call for the reinstated second round of voting.

The annulment followed accusations of electoral misconduct and alleged Russian interference, with Georgescu, known for his controversial pro-Russian statements, firmly denying any illicit activity. Criticism also came from US Vice President JD Vance, who accused Romania of succumbing to external pressures to cancel the election.

(With inputs from agencies.)