Romania's prime minister-designate gains support for government

Romania is moving closer to resolving a month-long political crisis as Prime Minister-designate Luca Niculescu secures the necessary support for an upcoming parliamentary confidence vote. The 55-year-old diplomat and former journalist, who currently serves as interim deputy foreign minister, is the fourth candidate nominated by President Nicusor Dan to lead the country since the collapse of the previous coalition government in May.

The Social Democrats (PSD), which holds the largest number of seats in parliament, announced it will join the new government. PSD leader Sorin Grindeanu confirmed that the party will hold 11 ministerial positions in the proposed cabinet. The remaining ministerial roles, including key portfolios such as finance, energy, and foreign affairs, are expected to be filled by technocrats.

While other pro-European parties have declined to formally join the cabinet, many have pledged their support for the nomination. This backing is expected to provide the 233 votes required to secure a parliamentary majority, potentially ending a period of instability that has placed pressure on the nation’s investment-grade credit rating.

The current political impasse began in early May when the previous four-party government, led by Liberal Party head Ilie Bolojan, collapsed. The administration fell after the Social Democrats withdrew their support and joined forces with the far-right opposition to successfully pass a no-confidence vote.

Following that collapse, the Social Democrats had repeatedly proposed forming a new coalition under a different prime minister. However, the Liberals and two other centre-right parties consistently rejected those overtures. The resulting deadlock has left the country without a stable government for five months.

Niculescu is scheduled to unveil his full government proposal on Thursday. The subsequent parliamentary vote of confidence will serve as the final hurdle in the effort to restore a functioning executive branch and address the ongoing political uncertainty.