Romanian PM Bolojan Addresses SPP Chief's Past, Calls for Term Limits

Romanian interim Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan has weighed in on the controversy surrounding the past of Lucian Pahonțu, the head of the Protection and Guard Service (SPP). Following investigations published by Recorder and Snoop, Bolojan emphasized the need for clear facts regarding Pahonțu's history and the events of December 1989.

In an interview with Cotidianul, Bolojan stated that "every person is responsible for their actions" and clarified that any assessment of the SPP leadership is the responsibility of the Presidential Administration, not the government. He stressed the importance of unequivocally clarifying the role and involvement of individuals in the 1989 revolution.

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every person is responsible for their actions

Bolojan linked the debate on the influence of security services to institutional reforms, citing consolidated democracies that employ control mechanisms to prevent excessive power concentration. He pointed to Western models where practices limit potential interference and mandate term limits for sensitive positions.

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I will support in parliament all measures in this direction

Responding to Pahonțu's two-decade tenure as SPP chief, Bolojan acknowledged it as "a long period" and pledged parliamentary support for legislative changes aimed at limiting terms. He argued that such measures can help eliminate suspicions and controversies surrounding the accumulation of influence within key state institutions.

While acknowledging the inherently close relationship that develops between security officers and dignitaries due to daily proximity, Bolojan insisted on maintaining a clear distinction between security duties and political involvement. His statements come amid broader discussions about transparency and accountability within Romania's intelligence and security apparatus.

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officers of the Protection Service, being constantly with dignitaries, enter into an inevitable relationship with them at some point