(Hier ist das Interview auf Deutsch zu lesen) Bucharest: In an interview with Info-DIREKT, Romanian presidential candidate George Simion explains how the establishment is manipulating democratic processes to stay in power. He talks about Romania’s biggest challenges and his reasons for running. He also reveals what his most fervent wish is for his home country.
Info-DIREKT: Mr. Simion, what were the driving forces behind the annulment of the elections and the decision to prevent Georgescu from running again?
George Simion: What we have witnessed in Romania is a clear attempt by the political elite to control the democratic process. The annulment of the elections and the banning of Călin Georgescu were not legal or procedural decisions—they were acts of political survival. When those in power feel threatened, they do not debate; they eliminate competition.
The fact that my candidacy was ultimately allowed shows that public scrutiny and pressure still have power. Too many people were watching for them to get away with another disqualification. But let’s be realistic—those who tried to block my entry into the race are not going to simply accept defeat. They are now looking for other ways to hold onto control, and election rigging is a very real possibility. That is why we are calling for neutral international observers to ensure that this election is conducted fairly, from the ballot boxes to the final count.
Info-DIREKT: Can Romanians still trust in an independent judiciary?
Simion: An independent judiciary is fundamental to democracy, but trust in Romania’s judicial system has been deeply shaken. People see how courts are used as instruments of political control rather than as guardians of justice.
When judges are pressured, when legal rulings align too conveniently with the interests of those in power, and when democratic rights are restricted through technicalities, the public starts asking serious questions. And they have every right to.
The response from the Romanian people – whether in protests, discussions, or in the growing support for political change – shows that they are no longer willing to accept a system where justice is selective and institutions serve political elites instead of citizens.
Info-DIREKT: What do these decisions mean for Romania?
Simion: They expose a much deeper crisis within our democracy. If those in power can manipulate the system to block candidates, annul elections, and control the political process, then we have moved beyond standard political competition. We are dealing with an establishment that sees itself as untouchable.
But history shows that no system of control lasts forever. The more people see these abuses, the stronger their desire for change becomes. This is not just about one election—it’s about restoring trust in democracy itself. That is why this moment is so important.
Info-DIREKT: In Austria and Germany, all major media outlets are pro-EU. What role does the Romanian media play in the presidential elections?
Simion: The media landscape in Romania is highly polarized. Some independent voices remain, but many major outlets are either aligned with the establishment or hesitant to challenge the system too directly.
Instead of promoting real debate, many in the media prefer to push narratives that discredit opposition voices. This is not just a Romanian issue—it is happening across Europe. Those who question the status quo are labeled, attacked, and dismissed, rather than engaged in real dialogue.
That is why people are turning away from traditional media and seeking alternative sources of information. It is not about rejecting journalism—it is about demanding truth and balance.
Info-DIREKT: Why did you decide to run for president?
Simion: Because Romania deserves leadership that puts its people first. Too many politicians have treated this country as a personal business, making deals that benefit themselves while ordinary Romanians struggle.
We see it in our economy, in our institutions, in the way decisions are made without considering the long-term consequences for the country. I entered this race not just to be an alternative but to challenge an entire system that has failed its people for too long.
The growing support for our movement is not about me personally—it is about a shared realization that Romania can and must take a different path.
Info-DIREKT: What sets you apart from Călin Georgescu?
Simion: Călin Georgescu and I share concerns about sovereignty and the need for real democracy. But this election has become about more than individuals. What matters now is not just who runs but how we ensure that the people’s voice is heard.
The fact that I remain in this race is not a sign that the system has suddenly become fair—it is a sign that pressure from the people, from inside and outside Romania, has forced them to allow some competition. Our responsibility now is to ensure that this competition remains real and that the people—not political elites—decide the outcome.
Info-DIREKT: Do you believe you can win the election?
Simion: I believe the Romanian people are ready for change, and the momentum we see across the country reflects that. But believing in victory is not enough—we must protect the electoral process itself.
The same forces that tried to block me from running have not disappeared. If they failed once, they will look for other methods. That is why we must insist on full transparency and neutral international observers to prevent any attempt at electoral fraud.
The real question is not whether I can win—it is whether the system will allow a fair election. And we must ensure that it does.
Info-DIREKT: What do you expect after a potential electoral victory? Do you think your opponents will simply accept the result?
Simion: I have no illusions about this. Those who tried to manipulate the election process once will not simply step aside. They will fight to the last moment, through legal challenges, political manoeuvring, and media campaigns.
But this election is not just about me—it’s about dismantling a system that has, for decades, served only the political elite and entrenched oligarchs. The corruption in Romania is not incidental; it is systemic, deeply embedded in institutions designed to protect those in power rather than serve the people. This is not an easy machine to dismantle—it is a network of influence, privilege, and backroom deals that will not willingly give up control.
However, we must destroy the myth that these systems are unbreakable. The unwavering support for our movement proves that Romanians are ready to challenge this establishment, to reject the idea that they are powerless against it. The real victory will not just be in winning an election but in proving that the people can and will take back their country from those who have held it hostage for far too long.
Info-DIREKT: What are the main challenges Romania is currently facing?
Simion: Corruption, economic stagnation, political dependency, mishandling of foreign investments, and the massive migration of Romanians abroad have crippled our nation’s potential. Romania has the resources, the workforce, and the strategic position to be a strong nation. But decades of mismanagement and bad governance have left us in a position where too many Romanians feel their only option is to leave, while foreign investments have been allowed to drain our wealth instead of contributing to our prosperity.
The biggest challenge is not just fixing policies—it is restoring trust in leadership and proving that Romania’s wealth should serve Romanians first.
Info-DIREKT: What concrete measures would you take as president to address these issues?
Simion: The first step is economic reform – ensuring that Romania’s resources benefit its own people rather than being exploited for private or foreign gain.
The second is institutional reform – restoring judicial independence, enforcing anti-corruption measures, and ensuring that political accountability is more than just a slogan.
The third is sovereignty – not in the sense of isolation, but in ensuring that Romania engages with international partners from a position of strength, not submission.
Info-DIREKT: How do you assess the current trajectory of the European Union?
Simion: The EU was meant to be a partnership of equals, but today, it is increasingly divided between decision-makers and those expected to follow orders. Romania must stop being a passive member. I believe in a European Union where national sovereignty is respected, where economic policies benefit all members, and where Brussels listens instead of dictates. Reform is necessary, but abandoning our place in Europe is not the answer. We must fight for a stronger position within the EU, not accept second-tier status.
Info-DIREKT: If you had one wish for Romania, what would it be?
Simion: That Romanians no longer feel they need to leave their own country to build a future. A nation where opportunity is not reserved for the few, where young people can see a future for themselves here, and where decisions are made for the benefit of Romania first.
That is what we are working for, and that is why we cannot afford to let this election be stolen. The stakes are too high.
About George Simion
George Nicolae Simion was born in 1986 in Focșani, eastern Romania. He is a patriotic activist and politician as well as co-founder and president of the “Alianța pentru Unirea Românilor” (AUR) party. He is also Vice President of the European party “European Conservatives and Reformists” (ECR), which is represented in the EU Parliament with its own parliamentary group. Simion, who studied history, has been a member of the Romanian Chamber of Deputies (Camera Deputaților) since 2020. Established media accuse him of his pro-Romanian stance and his efforts to unite Romania with the Republic of Moldova.
George Simion on social media: