'Categorically No.' Kövesi Rules Out Entering Politics, Cites Recurrent Speculation
Translated from Romanian and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.
At a glance
- European Chief Prosecutor Laura Codruța Kövesi has categorically denied any intention of entering politics after her term ends.
- She stated that current public speculation about her political future is recurrent and unfounded.
- Kövesi emphasized that she is focused on completing her current mandate and is open to supporting Romania if needed, but not through a political office.
Laura Codruța Kövesi, the formidable head of the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO), has firmly shut down persistent rumors linking her to a political career in Romania. In a recent interview, Kövesi unequivocally stated, "Categorically no," to any possibility of entering politics, dismissing the ongoing speculation as "recurrent" and without basis. This clear stance aims to put an end to the constant chatter that surfaces whenever discussions about her future arise.
Categorically no, I will not enter politics.
Kövesi, whose current mandate as EPPO Chief Prosecutor is set to conclude in October, admitted that she has not yet finalized her plans for what comes next. However, she stressed that her immediate focus is on successfully completing her term. "I have a few more months of mandate. Probably towards the end of the mandate, I will have an answer. For now, I am channeling all my energy into finishing this mandate and finishing it as well as possible," she explained, indicating that various options are being considered.
I have a few more months of mandate. Probably towards the end of the mandate, I will have an answer. For now, I am channeling all my energy into finishing this mandate and finishing it as well as possible.
Addressing the context in which these rumors often emerge, Kövesi pointed out a cyclical pattern where speculation about her political ambitions – whether running for president, prime minister, or a ministerial position – coincides with accusations of abuse of power during her tenure as head of Romania's National Anticorruption Directorate (DNA). She suggested that these accusations are strategically deployed to influence public perception. While she explicitly rejects a political role, Kövesi affirmed her willingness to serve Romania if called upon, stating, "I don't want a political position, I don't need to be employed to do that. So, if Romania needs me and I am called to do something in Romania, I will do it." This sentiment underscores her commitment to her country, independent of holding elected office.
I don't want a political position, I don't need to be employed to do that. So, if Romania needs me and I am called to do something in Romania, I will do it.
Originally published by Adevărul in Romanian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.