Romania’s Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan who was dismissed in a no-confidence vote has thanked the public for their support and “enduring hardships that come with fixing the country’s finances.”
Although his austerity measures were hard for many to swallow, he was popular for his determination in cutting unnecessary spending, bolder than any almost any other prime minister since 1989 when communism ended.
The hardships “were not an end in themselves or a choice, but the price we had to pay for reconstruction and future prosperity,” he said in his letter.
The Liberal Party that he leads has said it will go into opposition during the period of political uncertainty. It is likely to take weeks to form a new government.
President Nicusor Dan has ruled out snap elections, called for calm and said the future government will keep the country of 19 million on its pro-Western path.
Bolojan can remain the interim prime minister with limited powers for a maximum of 45 days.
Here is the text of his letter.
Dear Romanians,
It has been an honor for me to serve our country for 10 months as Prime Minister. I did everything in my power to bring order to Romania’s finances, to correct injustices, and to promote reforms for the modernization of Romania.
Most importantly, I proved that a different way of governing is possible. Thank you, dear Romanians, for enduring the hardships that come with fixing the country’s finances. These were not an end in themselves or a choice, but the price we had to pay for reconstruction and future prosperity.
I thank those with whom I collaborated in this team effort over these 10 months, for a different model of governance. I met many quality people, from the simplest positions to the highest ones. Together we proved that it is possible to govern with rules, without wasting public money and without arrogance.
After 10 months, the inevitable happened. When you challenge privileges and turn on the light, the reactions are proportionate. Until my last day in this office, I will work for Romania’s interests and I will not abandon the principles I have upheld throughout my entire career.
All the support I have received, especially in the last month, motivates me to move forward and continue fighting for Romania and its future. One chapter ends, another begins, and the values I fight for remain the same. It is essential that I feel you by my side.
THANK YOU, ROMANIA!
