Romanian Culture Minister Resigns After Offensive Audio Scandal; Denies Remarks

Romania's interim Culture Minister, Demeter András István, has announced his intention to step down from his position. The decision follows the emergence of an audio recording in which the minister allegedly used derogatory language directed at the state and the concept of national interest.

“

Statements have been attributed to me that I do not remember making, statements of a gravity that are contradicted by my actions and deeds, my achievements on the public stage since 1993.

István maintains that he does not recall making the statements attributed to him and has called for an official verification of the audio recording's authenticity. "Statements have been attributed to me that I do not remember making, statements of a gravity that are contradicted by my actions and deeds, my achievements on the public stage since 1993," the interim minister stated in a video message. He insisted he is not the person who would disregard national interest.

“

I do not remember having made such a statement, from me. I do not remember saying those words. I do not believe I am that person who says that national interest does not matter.

The minister also refuted any suggestion that he has ever prioritized the interests of other nations over those of Romania or the Republic of Moldova. He referenced his past role as president of the Romanian Radio Broadcasting Company from 2010-2012, stating he worked to rectify damage caused by Russian actions against Romanian journalists in Chisinau during that period. "It is nonsense," he asserted.

“

It is nonsense.

While acknowledging that a discussion might have occurred, István stressed it could not have been in the terms presented in the alleged recording, hinting at potential manipulation. "Someone has other interests and wants to discredit everyone... with or without modern technology, with or without the help of artificial intelligence," he suggested. He pledged to request an expert examination of the recording and stated he is prepared to accept the consequences if its authenticity is confirmed, including resigning and apologizing.

“

Someone has other interests and wants to discredit everyone, through him, through an expression put in his mouth, with or without modern technology, with or without the help of artificial intelligence.