Calin Georgescu, Winner of the First Round of Presidential Elections in Romania, Detained

Romanian authorities detained Calin Georgescu this Wednesday in Bucharest, winner of the first round of the presidential elections annulled last year.

The Prosecutor's Office summoned him as part of an investigation into alleged fraud in the financing of his campaign. In addition to alleged activities against the constitutional order. Upon his arrival at the Prosecutor's Office headquarters, Georgescu refused to answer journalists' questions.

His team denounced the detention, indicating that it occurred when the former candidate was about to present his new candidacy for the presidential elections. The new elections are scheduled for May following the annulment of the previous elections.

The Prosecutor's Office reported that 47 searches are being carried out on properties of individuals and associations linked to Georgescu. In the context of a broader criminal investigation that includes suspicions of fraud in campaign financing and acts against the constitutional order.

Georgescu was detained while traveling in his vehicle and taken to the Prosecutor's Office attached to the High Court of Cassation and Justice. On Wednesday morning, dozens of searches were conducted in several counties. With the aim of identifying crimes such as actions against the constitutional order, public incitement, formation of a fascist organization and false statements about the sources of campaign financing.

Last December, the presidential elections were annulled due to suspicions of Russian interference in favor of Georgescu, known for his critical stance toward NATO and Ukraine. Moscow has denied these accusations.

The current investigation also covers the promotion of hate speech and the possible creation of paramilitary groups. Despite the controversy, Georgescu leads the polls for the rescheduled elections in May.

His detention has sparked protests among his supporters, who question the legitimacy of government actions and fear a democratic regression in the country.

International observers have expressed concern about the political situation in Romania, especially after the annulment of the elections and the recent detentions.

The international community is closely following the development of events, given the potential impact on regional stability and Romania's relations with its Western allies. Meanwhile, Romanian authorities continue with the investigations, and more details about the accusations and Georgescu's political future are expected to be clarified in the coming days.