The Co-Chairmen of the European Conservatives and Reformists Group in the European Parliament, Nicola Procaccini (FdI, Italy) and Patryk Jaki (PiS, Poland), have extended their heartfelt congratulations to George Simion, the AUR candidate in Romania’s presidential election, after his clear lead in the first round.

Mr Procaccini said:

“I wholeheartedly congratulate our friend George Simion on his clear first-round lead. His campaign has electrified Romania – a genuine popular movement that puts people before bureaucracy and champions common sense over technocratic ideology. At a time when many shy away from difficult truths, George has shown what real leadership looks like.”

Mr Jaki said:

“I congratulate our friend George Simion on this exceptional result. He has not only inspired millions of Romanians with his passion and clarity – he has reminded all of Europe that real change comes from standing close to the people, not from submitting to detached elites. George embodies the democratic spirit we defend as ECR, and we stand proudly with him.”

The ECR Co-Chairmen stated that they are deeply concerned by credible reports of irregularities, including inconsistencies in the voter registry. These issues must be clarified fully and without delay, the two ECR leaders stated.

The second and decisive round of Romania’s presidential election is set for 18 May.