ALBA IULIA, Romania — In the picturesque landscapes of Transylvania, where legends of wolves, bears, and vampires flourish, a concerning political atmosphere is emerging. This region, which played a crucial role in the formation of modern Romania during the 1918 unification, is now witnessing a grave crisis in its democratic foundations.
Following a tumultuous history marked by fascist rule and the oppressive Communist regime of Nicolae Ceaușescu, Romania is witnessing a resurgence of disillusionment among its citizens. The violent revolution of 1989, which famously ended with the execution of Ceaușescu, served as a symbol of hope for many. Yet, more than three decades later, the specter of corruption and a cost-of-living crisis, with inflation nearing 5 percent, have left many questioning the integrity of their democracy.
Political turmoil ahead of the elections
As a high-stakes presidential election approaches, the residents of Alba county express a strong desire to dismantle the current political system, viewing it as irreparably corrupted. Leading the charge is 38-year-old George Simion, a right-wing populist who emerged as the frontrunner in the first round of voting. His campaign embodies a growing frustration with the established political order.
“We call it the big squid because it has its tentacles everywhere — only the guys on top have profits,” says Dragoș, a local taxi driver. “Democracy was only a name. We are still under Communism — in every way.”
Simion’s opponent, Nicușor Dan, is a centrist independent and the mayor of Bucharest. This election marks a significant moment in Romanian politics, as neither candidate comes from the traditional political parties that have dominated since the revolution. Both candidates present themselves as “anti-system” figures, pledging to combat corruption, yet their methods and ideologies starkly contrast with each other.
Divided nation grappling with fear
The election campaign has revealed deep divisions within Romanian society. A palpable sense of anger and betrayal exists towards established politicians, with many voters feeling that their needs have been consistently overlooked. As the political landscape shifts, supporters of Simion are emboldened by his promises to punish corrupt figures, while Dan advocates for moderation and the restoration of traditional democratic values.
Recent polls have shown a tightening race, complicating predictions about the election outcome. Despite initial perceptions that Simion would dominate, Dan has gained significant ground. Anecdotal evidence suggests that many voters feel safer disclosing their support for Dan rather than Simion, indicative of the underlying tension and fear surrounding the election.
Moreover, the atmosphere of intimidation looms large, as some voters report threats related to their political preferences. “This is a small town. Some people are threatened that if they don’t vote for Nicușor Dan they will be fired,” expresses a local woman who wishes to remain anonymous.
As the citizens of Alba Iulia continue to navigate their political choices, the specter of Romania’s oppressive past hangs heavily in the air. The upcoming election not only represents a critical juncture for Romania’s political future but also serves as a reflection of its tumultuous history. With the stakes higher than ever, the struggle for democratic integrity continues against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and political division.