Far-Right Candidate Calin Georgescu Battles Election Ban in Romania

Calin Georgescu, a Romanian far-right pro-Russian presidential candidate, plans to challenge his disqualification from a rerun election scheduled for May. His candidacy was barred following allegations of Russian interference, although Moscow has denied them. Romania's Constitutional Court is set to decide on his appeal shortly.

Calin Georgescu, a controversial far-right contender for Romania's presidency, is set to contest a decision disallowing his participation in the upcoming rerun of the election in May. The move follows accusations of Russian interference in his campaign, prompting Romania's Constitutional Court to annul the previous vote held in December. Despite denials from Moscow, the central election authority deemed Georgescu's bid inadmissible after the annulment.

Romania's Constitutional Court, which has set a precedent by blocking candidates with extremist views, now faces the task of ruling on Georgescu's appeal. This decision comes amidst the broader political landscape where three ultranationalist parties backing Georgescu fear losing representation in the forthcoming elections. These parties account for a significant 35% of Romania's parliamentary seats.

Amidst the legal wrangle, George Simion, leader of the opposition party AUR, signified support for Georgescu with a meeting scheduled. While not ruling out his own candidacy, Simion emphasized a wait-and-see approach. Simultaneously, Georgescu continues to deny allegations as he faces a criminal investigation for allegedly being part of a fascist organization and spreading false campaign financing information.

(With inputs from agencies.)