Romanian senator proposes constitutional change for constructive no-confidence votes

Independent Senator Victoria Stoiciu has proposed a significant constitutional reform in Romania, advocating for a change that would link the dismissal of a government through a no-confidence vote to the simultaneous designation of a new prime minister. Stoiciu argues that the current constitutional framework fosters political irresponsibility and instability by enabling the overthrow of governments without a clear plan or alternative leadership in place.

"Whoever demolishes a government must be able to build another," Stoiciu stated on Facebook, emphasizing her belief that the existing constitution rewards political recklessness. She contends that the current system allows for the destruction of governments without any consideration for what follows, leaving citizens to bear the cost of reconstruction. This, she believes, necessitates a paradigm shift towards a more responsible political process.

Stoiciu champions the adoption of a "constructive no-confidence vote" model, similar to Germany's system implemented since 1949. This model ensures that a government can only be removed if Parliament, in the same vote and with an absolute majority, elects its successor. The senator acknowledges the difficulty of amending the constitution but suggests that changing the rules might be more effective than waiting for politicians' behavior to change.

Her proposal comes amid a period of political flux in Romania. President Klaus Iohannis recently held consultations with party leaders regarding the formation of a new government. Following these discussions, the president criticized the National Liberal Party (PNL) for changing its position and blocking the formation of a new government, despite an earlier commitment to support a minority PSD-led government under certain conditions. The president urged the parties to return to dialogue, stressing Romania's need for a fully empowered government.