Romanian Senate elects new leadership and sees party shifts

The Romanian Senate has established its leadership composition for the second ordinary session of the year. Paul Stănescu of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) was elected as one of four vice-presidents, receiving 110 votes in favor and one against. Other elected vice-presidents include Liviu Mazilu (PSD), Laurențiu Plăeșu (AUR), and Mihai Coteț (PNL). Mircea Abrudean continues to serve as President of the Senate.

In addition to leadership changes, shifts in parliamentary group affiliations occurred. Senator Liviu Fodoca, previously unaffiliated (POT Sălaj), announced his move to the National Liberal Party (PNL). Meanwhile, Senator Ionel Carp, formerly affiliated with the PSD via S.O.S. România, is transitioning to the Pace Întâi România group.

Following these developments, PNL leader Gabriel Andronache announced that the party will implement administrative sanctions against members who vote against the parliamentary group's decisions to ensure coherent conduct.