Political shifts and tensions in Romania

Political shifts and internal friction continue within the Romanian political landscape, particularly concerning local leadership and the Social Democratic Party (PSD).

In late September, local leaders announced divergent paths. Soós Zoltán, the mayor of Târgu Mureș, confirmed his intention to seek another term to complete urban infrastructure projects, signaling his participation in internal UDMR processes. Conversely, Constantin Toma, the mayor of Buzău, declared his opposition to the PSD, describing himself as a “prisoner” of the party and announcing his intent to run as an independent candidate due to dissatisfaction with party leadership.

By mid-October, tensions within the PSD intensified. Toma, who has previously resigned from party leadership roles, was reportedly seen in Brussels with AUR leader George Simion, reiterating that there is “no future” with the current PSD administration.

Disputes also persist regarding major infrastructure projects and environmental policy. Interim Environment Minister Diana Buzoianu and PSD leader Sorin Grindeanu have clashed over the Sibiu–Piteşţi highway. Buzoianu has accused Grindeanu of spreading misinformation, clarifying that a new environmental agreement is necessary due to route modifications requested by CNAIR.

Regarding physical progress, Section 2 of the Sibiu-Piteşti Highway has reached 40% completion, while the Mircești-Pașcani lot of the A7 highway is 55% complete. The A1 Lugoj-Deva sector has reached 80% completion. However, CNAIR recently lost a court case against a Bulgarian construction group involving 43 million lei in penalties related to the A7 project.

In environmental management, the government approved the 2026 budget for Romsilva, which includes 24.4 million lei for equipping forest rangers with body cameras and GPS systems to combat illegal logging. Additionally, the ‘Mineral Aggregate Radar’ platform is 95% complete and is expected to be operational by October 26 to track the traceability of sand and gravel transports.