Romanian Governing Parties Call for Reform After Victory of Presidential Independent Candidate

Following the presidential election victory of independent candidate Nicușor Dan, Romania’s two main governing parties, the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the National Liberal Party (PNL), have publicly acknowledged the need for internal reform and a political reset. While expressing willingness to support a stable, pro-European government, both parties appear to be facing a period of introspection and restructuring.

PNL Pushes for a Return to Core Values

Speaking to Digi24 on Monday, PNL Senator Vasile Blaga emphasized the need for a “deep internal reform” within the National Liberal Party, calling on the party to abandon its recent strategy of trying to appeal to the entire social spectrum.

“PNL must return to the values that defined it—supporting self-reliance, entrepreneurship, and personal effort,” said Blaga. “We cannot be everything to everyone. We must stand clearly as the party of those who build this country through their own strength.”

Blaga noted that the party had already begun its reform process after the first round of last year’s elections, appointing Ilie Bolojan as interim president. He affirmed that the leadership is committed to continuing these changes.

“Values like family and faith matter deeply to Romanians. We must not shy away from these truths,” he added.

PSD Reflects on Democratic Mandate from Voters

Victor Negrescu, PSD leader and Vice President of the European Parliament, also acknowledged the need for political change following what he described as “a clear message from the Romanian people.”

“Romanians gave a lesson in democracy—not only to their own political class but also to Europe,” he said in a Digi24 interview. “It was not just a vote for a candidate, but for democratic values and a European future.”

Negrescu emphasized that PSD must regain public trust by rethinking its approach to politics and aligning with citizens’ expectations. He suggested that any future participation in government should be based on a team capable of delivering necessary reforms.

Toward a Pro-European Coalition?

With the prospect of a pro-European coalition government including PSD, PNL, USR, UDMR, and national minorities, Negrescu confirmed that discussions are underway within PSD to define its role in this new political landscape.

“We will build a team to engage with the newly elected president. I believe we’ll soon have a pro-European government,” he said. “But the priority now is rebuilding credibility and putting the interests of Romanians above politics.”

On whether PSD would support PNL’s Ilie Bolojan as prime minister, as suggested by Nicușor Dan, Negrescu cautioned that parliamentary weight must be respected.

“We need a team, not just a name. A capable premier is nothing without good ministers, and vice versa. Let’s focus on that.”

PSD Leadership Under Question

Asked about a potential leadership change within PSD, Negrescu declined to comment directly on Marcel Ciolacu’s future as party leader but stressed the need for a change in political culture.

“It’s not about one person. It’s about how we do politics. If the party doesn’t support this shift in approach, any leadership change will be meaningless.”

Negrescu said he hopes the party can engage in a constructive internal dialogue, without internal conflict, to find a path forward that aligns with the public’s demand for integrity and reform.

What’s Next?

President-elect Nicușor Dan has signaled that it will take several weeks to form a new government. Meanwhile, both PSD and PNL face growing pressure—from within and from their voters—to modernize, refocus, and cooperate responsibly in shaping Romania’s post-election future.

As both parties navigate this transition, their ability to adapt to the new political landscape and embrace reform will be crucial not just for their survival, but for the stability and progress of Romania’s democracy.