Romania: Liberal mayor Nicusor Dan beats nationalist rival in heated presidential run-off

Nicusor Dan, the liberal, pro-European mayor of Bucharest, has won Romania’s presidency after a fiercely contested run-off against far-right nationalist George Simion, following months of political upheaval in the country.

Dan secured 54% of the vote in the decisive second round on May 18, fending off a strong challenge from Simion, leader of the nationalist Alliance for the Unity of Romanians (AUR) party, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

Simion had dominated the first round earlier this month, buoyed by significant support among Romanians living abroad, particularly in Western Europe.

The presidential race had been marred by controversy after last year’s initial election was annulled amid allegations of Russian interference and campaign fraud, claims denied by Moscow. The annulment triggered a period of political instability that culminated in the collapse of the government earlier this month, when the incumbent candidate failed to reach the run-off stage.

Speaking after the victory was confirmed shortly after midnight on May 19, Dan urged national unity, saying: “We need to build Romania together irrespective of who you voted for.” More than 11.6 million Romanians cast their ballots in the run-off, with Dan attracting over six million votes.

Supporters gathered outside City Hall in Bucharest celebrated enthusiastically, chanting Dan’s name and expressing hope for a new era. “A community of Romanians who want profound change has won,” Dan said.

Simion initially refused to concede, maintaining on social media that he was the true victor and promising to “give back power to the Romanians.” However, he acknowledged defeat in the early hours of May 19 and cancelled a planned protest by his supporters.

Simion’s appeal was strongest among the diaspora, winning overwhelming majorities in countries including Spain, Italy, Germany, and the UK, where many Romanians also supported Calin Georgescu, a far-right candidate barred from running due to the annulled election. His campaign had benefited from a significant social media presence.

While Dan campaigned on an anti-corruption platform and reaffirmed support for Ukraine amid Russia’s ongoing invasion, Simion adopted a nationalist, anti-EU stance and called for cutting aid to Kyiv.

Dan’s victory has been welcomed internationally. Moldova’s President Maia Sandu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy both congratulated him, highlighting the importance of cooperation between their countries and Romania.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the high voter turnout, describing the result as a choice for “an open, prosperous Romania in a strong Europe.”

The outcome marks a rejection of Simion’s isolationist vision and uncertain commitment to European Union values. Nevertheless, Simion’s substantial support signals enduring nationalist sentiment within parts of the electorate.

By Aghakazim Guliyev