The pro-European Liberal Party on Wednesday urged voters to keep Romania on its “Euro-Atlantic path” ahead of elections that could see a surge for Euro-skeptic nationalist parties.
“Today, Romania stands at a crossroads. More than ever, we need a leader who will unite and keep Romania on” its pro-Atlantic course,” a statement from Liberal Party deputy chairman Alexandru Muraru said.
“The choice before us is… progress or stagnation, truth or imposture.”
Polls indicate that nationalist George Simion may come second in the first round of voting of Nov. 24 presidential elections, giving a boost to his populist AUR party in Dec. 1 parliamentary elections, and securing him a place in the Dec. 8 runoff.
Social Democrat Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu is expected to win the most votes in the Nov. 24 ballot but not enough to win outright.
Liberal Party candidate Nicolae Ciuca and pro-European mayor Elena Lasconi also stand a chance of getting though to the second round, although polls give conflicting information.
“Nicolae Ciucă is a man of deeds, not of empty words. He dedicated his life to serving this country, on the battlefield and in international forums. A valedictorian of graduate studies, a military leader with an exceptional career; a holder of 25 national and international awards, and a professional who speaks the language of global diplomacy at the highest level,” the Liberal leader said on Wednesday.
“In contrast, Marcel Ciolacu is a symbol of failure. He is the product of a system based on nepotism and imposture,” the statement said.
“He graduated from high school late, from a middle-ranking private college and cannot justify his studies or achievements even today. He is a leader with no international experience, no vision, supported by a corrupt system that has suffocated Romania for decades.”
The Liberals warned that the Social Democrats, Romania’s largest party were playing “a dangerous game with AUR, an extremist and anti-European party. This toxic couple dreams of taking over the leadership of the country in 2025, of giving back what we have won with sacrifices, of isolating us from Europe and dragging us back into the swamp of the past.”
“These choices are not just about one man. They are about our future as a nation. We choose to build a strong, united, European Romania or we go back to the dark times of corruption and mediocrity.”
Former General Ciuca needs to get into battle gear if he wants to be president
