Romanian PNL Leader Bolojan Favors Finance Minister Nazare for Interim Premier Role, Sources Say

In Romania's ongoing political maneuvering, sources within the National Liberal Party (PNL) indicate that Finance Minister Alexandru Nazare is being considered as a potential interim prime minister. This proposition is reportedly championed by PNL leader Ilie Bolojan, who sees Nazare as a viable candidate to navigate the current political crisis.

Bolojan's argument for Nazare centers on his fiscal expertise and perceived lack of populist inclinations. He believes Nazare's grasp of the state treasury and his potential to avoid destabilizing populist measures make him a suitable choice to lead the executive branch. This perspective suggests a preference for a pragmatic, economically focused leader during a period of uncertainty.

Furthermore, Nazare appears to have garnered support from key political factions. Nicușor Dan, the president of the Save Romania Union (USR), is reportedly willing to nominate Nazare. Additionally, the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the ethnic Hungarian Democratic Union of Romania (UDMR) are said to view Nazare favorably, considering him "a politician one can discuss with" and maintaining good relations with him. This broad support could significantly increase the chances of a government led by Nazare passing parliamentary approval.

However, not all within the PNL are aligned with Bolojan's choice. Some "conservatives" within the party, identified as Hubert Thuma and Alina Gorghiu, reportedly have a strained relationship with Nazare, referring to him as a "PDL-ist" (a reference to his origins in the former Democratic Liberal Party). Despite this internal opposition, their votes are considered less critical as Nazare's candidacy seems to rely on the backing of Bolojan and potentially Grindeanu from PSD.

A potential hurdle remains regarding the composition of a future government. While PSD and UDMR leaders may prefer party members in ministerial roles, Bolojan reportedly favors a technocratic government led by Nazare. This could create a point of contention in future negotiations, as PSD might seek direct control over ministries allocated during negotiations.