Romanian UDMR and USR criticize PNL leader Ilie Bolojan's promotion of former SOS and POT MPs

The Union Democratic Alliance of Hungarians in Romania (UDMR) voiced strong disapproval of National Liberal Party (PNL) leader Ilie Bolojan’s decision to appoint former SOS România and PRO Romania (POT) parliamentarians – Adrian Peiuși, Dorin Petrea and Ștefan Borțun – to leadership posts in PNL’s Ialomița and Brăila sections. UDMR deputy leader Csoma Botond called the moves an example of “political traseism,” saying the practice is an old‑fashioned problem in Romanian politics.

Bolojan, when questioned at a press conference, declined to comment on the internal party matter, stating he avoids political commentary unrelated to government activities. Separately, USR deputy Oana Murariu described Bolojan as “more USR‑ist than PNL‑ist,” claiming he adopts USR program ideas and aligns with USR policies despite leading a PNL‑led government.

Both parties framed the appointments as a concerning blend of extremist‑linked politicians into a mainstream party, raising questions about intra‑government cohesion and party discipline.