The Romanian Social Democratic Party (PSD), the largest faction in the ruling coalition, has retracted its support for Prime Minister Ilie Bolohan, jeopardizing the stability of the four-party pro-European government formed in June 2025.
This decision, reported by Bloomberg, was made on Monday, April 20, when PSD members voted overwhelmingly to withdraw their backing for Bolohan. The resignation of PSD ministers will result in the coalition losing its parliamentary majority. The party cited ongoing disputes over Bolohan’s austerity measures, which they claim have exacerbated social tensions across the country.
“Bolohan must go. Most of us believe that remaining in the current government is a political trap for the Social Democratic Party,” stated party leader Sorin Grindeanu during discussions prior to the vote.
In response, Bolohan condemned the decision as irresponsible and refused to step down. He indicated that his National Liberal Party, the junior partner in the coalition, continues to support him and plans to hold a meeting on April 21 to discuss the next steps.
Bolohan emphasized the need for stability to address Romania’s budget deficit, which is currently the largest in the European Union, and to implement reforms necessary for unlocking billions of euros from EU recovery funds by August.
President Nicușor Dan remarked that despite the disagreements, the ruling parties agree on the importance of fulfilling commitments related to recovery funds and adhering to fiscal targets.
PSD members have also accused Bolohan of disproportionately impacting their voter base with his austerity measures, which they argue have favored the far-right opposition, currently leading in polls.
Once the PSD ministers resign, Bolohan will have 45 days to seek a confidence vote in Parliament. During this period, he will retain his powers, appointing interim officials to the vacated positions.
Bolohan expressed his readiness to lead a minority government, although he acknowledged that this is not the ideal scenario given the need for reforms. He also mentioned that the liberals would not agree to a new coalition with the PSD in its current form.
Grindeanu added that if a pro-European coalition is no longer feasible, the Social Democrats are prepared to move into opposition, stating that the party will not form a majority with the far-right.
The withdrawal of support from the Romanian Social Democratic Party for Prime Minister Ilie Bolohan poses significant challenges for the ruling coalition. With potential shifts in power and ongoing social tensions, the political landscape remains precarious as the government navigates its next steps.
Source: Bloomberg