The Romanian government of Prime Minister Emil Boc resigned today (6 February), following more than 20 days of protests over austerity measures and the economic downturn in the EU newcomer.
Emil Boc said he took the decision in order "to defuse the social tension" and to protect the economic stability of the country, according to Romanian media. Boc, who is the leader of the Democratic Liberal Party (PDL) of President Traian Basescu, has been prime minister since 2008.
"We took difficult decisions thinking about the future of Romania […] I appeal on the maturity of the political class to pass quickly a new cabinet trough Parliament," he said. Although according to polls PDL has the support of only 18% of the population, this party has majority in Parliament.
However, the opposition made it clear that passing a cabinet trough Parliament was not an option.
Crin Antonescu, leader of the opposition National Liberal Party (PNL), called for early elections, as well as for the resignation of President Basescu.
Source and full article: Euractiv, 6 February 2012
