Romanian President Nicusor Dan Sworn In Amid Political Crisis

Nicusor Dan was officially sworn in as Romania's president, marking an end to a significant political crisis following the annulment of the previous election. Dan, a mathematician and former Bucharest mayor, won the rerun election against far-right opponent George Simion, who unsuccessfully challenged the results in court. At his inauguration, Dan called for fundamental reforms across the economy, education, healthcare, and justice system, pledging to be a president open to societal input and a partner to the people. He emphasized the need for fiscal responsibility and warned against populism, highlighting the urgency to reduce state spending and relaunch economic growth. Dan's immediate challenge includes forming a stable government, likely requiring cooperation from the largest party in parliament, the Social Democratic Party, despite its unclear stance on coalition participation. The inauguration was boycotted by far-right parties opposing Dan’s presidency, reflecting ongoing political divisions.