Romanian PM signals willingness to step down over pension reform crisis

Romanian Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan has indicated he is prepared to step down immediately if it would help resolve the ongoing political crisis, following the Constitutional Court’s ruling on the reform of special pensions, as noted by Antena 3.

Responding to criticism from the Social Democratic Party (PSD), Bolojan said: “I can leave tomorrow, but someone must propose genuine solutions that address these issues without upsetting anyone."

He added, "Any party that believes the government is failing can table a motion of no confidence and form a parliamentary majority with AUR or other partners. That is not a problem.” According to Bolojan, internal political cohesion is essential to maintain public trust.

The Constitutional Court of Romania (CCR) ruled on October 20 that the law altering pension regulations for magistrates is unconstitutional. The ruling followed a challenge submitted by the High Court of Cassation and Justice.

The legislation, proposed by Ilie Bolojan’s government as part of wider reform packages, sought to gradually raise the retirement age for magistrates to 65, in line with the public pension system; extend the minimum service period from 25 to 35 years; and cap magistrates’ pensions at 70% of their final net salary, compared with the current 80% of the last gross salary, which can result in pensions exceeding previous earnings.

The CCR rejected the draft law on procedural grounds, noting that the government had failed to obtain the required consultative opinion from the Superior Magistracy Council (CSM) and had not properly analysed the content of the measure.

The decision was passed by a narrow margin, with five judges in favour and four against.

By Aghakazim Guliyev