Romanian Opposition Leader Demands Minister's Resignation, Cites Government Inaction

Sorin Grindeanu, the President of Romania's Social Democratic Party (PSD), launched a sharp critique against the interim government led by Ilie Bolojan, accusing it of obstructing vital projects and causing delays in accessing European funds. Grindeanu's remarks, made on Wednesday, July 29, also included a direct call for the resignation of the interim Minister of Labor, Dragoș Pîslaru.

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Leave the team-building in Târgoviște and resign urgently.

Grindeanu specifically targeted Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan, alleging that the government withdrew a biodiversity project from public consultation, thereby keeping Romania "blocked." He contrasted this with the PSD's claimed achievements, stating that PSD deputies were crucial in saving five essential components of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). These components, he emphasized, represent nearly 4 billion euros in European funds designated for advancing highways, hospitals, and schools across Romania.

The PSD leader also directed criticism at Dragoș Pîslaru, the interim Minister of Labor. "Leave the team-building in Târgoviște and resign urgently," Grindeanu stated, implying Pîslaru was neglecting his ministerial responsibilities for recreational activities.

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Nearly 4 billion euros for Romania! My colleague deputies from the PSD parliamentary group managed today, through their vote, to save five essential milestones from the PNRR. These are European money for the continuation of highways, hospitals, and schools in Romania.

Furthermore, Grindeanu highlighted several key measures adopted by the Chamber of Deputies, which he asserted were supported by PSD parliamentarians. These included unblocking positions in the healthcare system, a move for which he again criticized Bolojan, stating, "Bolojan counts beds, he doesn't understand that people's lives are not an Excel table." The PSD also backed the extension of the reduced 9% VAT rate for housing until September 30, measures to temper fuel prices, and the continuation of the 1,500 lei teaching career bonus funded by European resources. Grindeanu announced plans to convene another meeting on Friday to approve further measures.

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Bolojan counts beds, he doesn't understand that people's lives are not an Excel table.