In a Bucharest neighborhood, pensioners like Ana Sandu waited for afternoons to buy discounted food, as inflation and economic challenges clouded Romania's outlook ahead of crucial elections.
Sandu, a 65-year-old reliant on her son's remittances, lived on a monthly pension of $400. She spent over $60 on medicine and at least $150 on utilities, leaving little for essentials. "I don't even think about buying meat. I buy vegetables," she said, holding a bag of grapes costing 6 lei ($1).
While annual inflation eased to 5.1 percent in October from 10 percent last year, high consumer prices continued to strain household budgets. Economic frustration fueled support for far-right contender Calin Georgescu, who secured a shocking first-round victory in the presidential election.
Romania prepared for a legislative election on Sunday, followed by a presidential runoff between Georgescu, a pro-Russia figure, and a centrist pro-European rival on December 8. The constitutional court could still annul the vote, adding to political uncertainty.
Experts cited economic mismanagement as a critical issue. Cristian Valeriu Paun, professor of international finance at the University of Economic Studies, linked inflation to Romania's excessive deficit, now nearing 55 percent of GDP. Solutions like curbing tax evasion and accelerating market reforms required time and strong political commitment, he said.
Radu Burnete, executive director at the Concordia Confederation, highlighted structural inefficiencies and poor public services as contributors to voter frustration. He described Georgescu's rise as a reflection of disillusionment with mainstream candidates and called for urgent fiscal reforms.
Adrian Dragnea, a 39-year-old father, acknowledged the long road to economic stability. "We will go through a rough patch," he said, stressing the importance of voting while hoping for better leadership.
