# Romanian political scrutiny of intelligence services > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/romanian-political-scrutiny-of-intelligence-services > Updated: 2026-08-31T04:30:36.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2. Political tension in Romania has centered on allegations of misconduct and the perceived influence of former communist-era security figures within state institutions. In late August, civic groups organized protests at Cotroceni Palace to demand the dismissal of Lucian Pahonțu, head of the Protection and Guard Service (SPP). Protesters criticized Pahonțu for his past as a Securitate officer and his alleged involvement in the 1990 University Square clashes, accusing President Nicușor Dan of failing to reform the SPP of influences from the former communist-era security apparatus. Subsequent press investigations have intensified scrutiny of Pahonțu and the SPP. These reports highlight broader concerns regarding the enduring influence of high-ranking officers from the former Securitate within Romania’s intelligence services. Critics argue that certain figures within the security apparatus remain immovable despite political changes, leading to accusations that the presidency is acting as a shield for the existing system rather than pursuing institutional reform. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-31: Romania intelligence services face scrutiny over officer influence Investigations into Romania's SPP have highlighted the persistent influence of high-ranking officers and raised questions about the presidency's role in reforming the state's security services. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romania-intelligence-services-face-scrutiny-over-officer-influence ### 2026-08-28: Political unrest in Romania involving Brașov councilor and SPP leadership Romanian civic groups are demanding political accountability following death threat allegations against a Brașov councilor and protests calling for the dismissal of the SPP chief. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/political-unrest-in-romania-involving-braov-councilor-and-spp-leadership --- Cite as: Romanian political scrutiny of intelligence services. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/romanian-political-scrutiny-of-intelligence-services