Romania swears in new PM Niculescu, ending months of political paralysis

Romania swore in a new cabinet on Tuesday after parliament confirmed independent diplomat Luca Niculescu as prime minister, ending a political impasse that has gripped the country since May.

Niculescu, 55, a diplomat and former journalist nominated by President Nicușor Dan on 5 October, secured 280 votes in favour with 58 against — the fourth nominee put forward by Dan after three earlier candidates failed to form a government.

He has reportedly reached a deal with the Social Democratic Party and other parties for six months of support while a longer-term arrangement is negotiated. Addressing parliament after the vote, Niculescu said he presented "a governing programme, a team, and a commitment to work toward several clear objectives" while telling the Romanian people what kind of government this would be. He added that it would be "a government that brings funds and investments into the country."

The political crisis began in May when then-Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan was removed in a no-confidence motion filed jointly by the Social Democratic Party and the Alliance for the Unity of Romanians. Bolojan had pursued strict austerity measures after taking office in 2024 to address one of the highest budget deficits recorded in the European Union.

The country has also faced rampant inflation and a technical recession, compounding instability that stretches back to the annulment of a presidential election in December 2024.

Experts warn that Niculescu's support rests on a six-month arrangement with several parties and that tensions could return once that window closes. Romania is a member of both NATO and the EU.