PSD Leadership Stance on Street Protests
PSD leader Sorin Grindeanu has stated that the so-called “hashtag bubble” has deflated, characterizing the massive public demonstrations that occurred in 2017 and 2018 as mere slogans. These protests, which saw hundreds of thousands of Romanians take to the streets, were primarily directed against Emergency Ordinance 13 (OUG 13) and in defense of the rule of law and the judicial system. Grindeanu’s comments were made in response to questions regarding the potential for future PSD-driven street mobilization, during which he asserted that the party is not afraid of such movements.
Criticism of Grindeanu’s Perspective on OUG 13
Designated Prime Minister Siegfried Mureșan has publicly criticized Grindeanu’s remarks, arguing that they prove the PSD leader has failed to learn from the political fallout of 2017. Mureșan contends that Grindeanu does not regret the issuance of the ordinance—which Mureșan claims legalized corruption—but rather regrets that he was held accountable for it. According to Mureșan, this attitude suggests a lack of remorse regarding the legislative actions that triggered the civil unrest.
Risk Assessment of Future Governance
Mureșan issued a warning regarding a potential return of the PSD to government leadership, suggesting that Grindeanu would not hesitate to issue a new “pro-theft” ordinance if he believed the public would not protest. Mureșan framed the PSD as a dangerous political entity that should not be entrusted with the future of the country or its honest citizens. The liberal politician argues that the party’s governance style remains fundamentally unchanged and poses a continued threat to the interests of honest citizens.
Common Questions Regarding the 2017 Protests and Current Rhetoric
What was the primary objective of the 2017 demonstrations?
Participants were primarily protesting against Emergency Ordinance 13 and were advocating for the protection of judicial independence and the rule of law.
How does the current leadership view the “hashtag” movement?
Sorin Grindeanu has dismissed the movement as a “hashtag bubble” that has lost its influence, suggesting that it was driven by slogans rather than genuine, sustained public concern.
Did you know? The term “hashtag” refers to the movement which mobilized hundreds of thousands of protesters across Romania during the 2017 and 2018 political crises.