Social Democratic Party (PSD) Chairman Sorin Grindeanu on Tuesday said that Deputy Prime Minister Oana Gheorghiu's remarks regarding magistrates' pensions fall into the category of 'populist and irresponsible political statements,' but pointed out that populism is not a criminal offence in Romania and, therefore, in his view, the reaction of the Superior Council of Magistracy (CSM) is 'exaggerated.'
'I appreciate the initiative of President Nicusor Dan to launch consultations with the coalition parties on a crucial issue that the Government has unfortunately failed to manage properly. Before the substantive discussion, things must be set straight. The statements of Deputy Prime Minister Oana Gheorghiu fall within the register of populist and irresponsible political remarks, but populism is not punishable under criminal law in Romania. Therefore, I consider the CSM's action an exaggerated reaction. Any politician has the right to express an opinion, whether in government or in opposition,' Grindeanu wrote on Facebook.
He added that he wishes for a swift agreement on a constitutional version of the law concerning magistrates' pensions.
'Beyond political rhetoric, this has always been the PSD's goal: to meet the milestone and secure the funds from the PNRR [National Resilience and Recovery Plan] instead of raising taxes. We must move beyond tensions and political statements and show political maturity, not pride. The responsibility is great: we cannot treat such matters lightly, even if some believe such behaviour is applauded on social media. The PSD is ready to unblock the situation in order to identify an institutional solution that will resolve the issue of magistrates' pensions and allow us to access the 231 million euros from the PNRR,' the Social Democrat leader said.
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