PSD expected to join Niculescu cabinet as PNL and UDMR may vote for it, per Digi24
Prime Minister-designate Luca Niculescu is in a critical week of negotiations to form a new government, with a deadline set for Thursday to present his program and ministerial list to Parliament. As the country faces a prolonged political impasse, Niculescu is balancing proposals for a technocratic, hybrid, or fully political cabinet while seeking a six-month pact of non-aggression from the major parties. The process of forming the new executive will be determined by the “Apel matinal” guest, Luca Niculescu, who confirmed his schedule for the coming days.
The Evolving Coalition Dynamics
The path to a stable administration remains complex, with the Social Democratic Party (PSD) currently weighing its role in the proposed cabinet. According to Digi24, PSD leadership is scheduled to meet Wednesday to decide on a formal government structure. Ilie Bolojan, representing the PNL, has stated that his party intends to remain in the opposition, though he expressed willingness to sign an agreement to support policies that serve the national interest. HotNews reported that PSD leaders are exploring various scenarios, including the potential for a “wide mandate” for negotiations, as they grapple with the vulnerability of a minority government. Several leaders have argued that even if the government secured investiture, it would remain vulnerable to the opposition in Parliament, including to Ilie Bolojan. Consequently, there is an internal push to restore the former coalition, excluding the USR. Meanwhile, Sorin Grindeanu has held discussions with UDMR leader Kelemen Hunor, who indicated that his party is willing to vote for nearly any government proposal but will not participate with ministers.
Niculescu’s Strategic Outlook
Luca Niculescu has maintained an optimistic stance following discussions with party leaders. Niculescu has expressed a preference for a political or hybrid government, noting that such a structure would likely possess more authority to implement urgent reforms. He has also engaged in discussions regarding the need for predictability to facilitate investment, particularly as Romania nears the end of its technical process for OECD accession. When reflecting on his background, Niculescu noted, I have had meetings with representatives of companies from many countries and especially from Romania, I would say, since I have been dealing with the accession to the OECD.
PNL and UDMR Support Could Secure 239 Votes
The legislative math for a successful investiture vote involves securing support from multiple factions. The proposal includes the PSD entering the government alongside technocratic ministers, with the President, Nicușor Dan, proposing candidates for the Finance, Defense, and Foreign Affairs portfolios. HotNews noted that with the support of PNL and UDMR, a cabinet featuring PSD members could reach at least 239 votes. If the PSD joins the government, they would negotiate ministerial positions, including an oversight ministry responsible for vetting all normative acts. Niculescu has requested a “pact of non-aggression” for the next six months to allow for the adoption of the state budget and other critical measures without the threat of a motion of no-confidence. TVRInfo reported that the Prime Minister-designate continues to hold meetings, both in person and remotely, to finalize the ministerial list, acknowledging that while progress has been made, the window to secure a solution is closing rapidly.
The Path to Thursday
The final shape of the Executive is expected to be determined by the close of the week. By Thursday, Niculescu must formally deposit his government program and the list of proposed ministers in Parliament. Sorin Grindeanu has convened the National Political Council of the PSD for Wednesday to reach a final decision. Ahead of this, the Prime Minister-designate will transmit the guidelines of his governing program to the parties. The legislative body will then schedule hearings and a final vote of confidence. As parties deliberate on their final positions, the focus remains on whether the current political actors can prioritize immediate fiscal and administrative stability over partisan disagreements.
