Romania faces political uncertainty as court rejects presidential candidate’s petition

Romania's Constitutional Court has rejected a petition by presidential candidate Cristian Terhes to annul the results of the first round of the presidential election, paving the way for a potential second-round vote next Sunday.

The decision comes amid heightened political tensions, with results from Sunday's parliamentary elections revealing no clear majority for any party, further complicating the country's political landscape.

The Constitutional Court is expected to deliver a final ruling on Tuesday, which will determine whether the second round of the presidential election proceeds as planned. If confirmed, the runoff is likely to deepen Romania's already pronounced political divisions.

Despite failing to secure first place in the parliamentary elections, there was optimism at the headquarters of the far-right Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), where supporters celebrated what leader George Simion called a "vindication" and a "victory for the right." Simion's party has gained significant momentum, reflecting growing disenchantment with Romania's traditional political establishment.

Meanwhile, the mood was more subdued at the headquarters of the ruling Social Democratic Party (PSD). Leaders acknowledged the challenges ahead, with the party facing difficulty forming a new coalition government without making significant policy concessions. Negotiations are expected to be arduous and could prolong the political uncertainty.

For supporters of the progressive Save Romania Union (USR), the timing of the elections has been a source of frustration. Romania's decision to hold parliamentary elections between the two rounds of the presidential vote has drawn criticism for creating confusion and limiting the time for proper debate.

"I think it was a bad experiment from the side of the government to hold parliamentary elections between the two rounds of the presidential elections, because it creates a lot of confusion and chaos and parliamentary elections deserve much more debate," said Alina Girbea, a USR supporter.

The USR's candidate is seen as particularly vulnerable to voter fatigue, with some fearing that holding three elections in two weeks may hurt turnout among their base.

The parliamentary vote also underscored the growing influence of far-right and nationalist rhetoric in Romania. Calin Gorgescu, a candidate known for his anti-NATO and anti-EU stance, performed strongly, with more than 2 million Romanians voting for far-right candidates.

Political consultant Raul Olajos sees this as a reflection of deep dissatisfaction with establishment parties.

"We have to recognize that more than 2 million Romanians voted for a far-right candidate who has a strong popular support. After all, the reality is that (many) Romanians are not satisfied at all with the traditional establishment Romanian parties," he said.

As Romania heads toward a likely second round of the presidential election, the political landscape remains fractured. The results of both the parliamentary and presidential votes highlight the country's deep divides, with no easy path to consensus.

The next week will be pivotal for Romania's future, as the Constitutional Court's final decision and subsequent coalition talks could shape the nation's political direction for years to come.

Romania faces political uncertainty as court rejects presidential candidate’s petition

Romania faces political uncertainty as court rejects presidential candidate’s petition

A contemporary Chinese art exhibition has been held at the Hungarian National Museum in Budapest, playing a vibrant role in fostering cultural ties between the East and the West. The exhibits, including brush paintings and sculptures on mountains, rivers, plants, blend traditional brushwork with Western influences, creating a serene, meditative atmosphere.

The artists' deep connection with the natural world is a window that the "Chinese Xieyi exhibition'' at the Hungarian National Museum presents to the public to explore Chinese philosophy, according to Tunde FegyvAri-Komori, curator of the Hungarian National Museum.

"This exhibition is a collection of 58 artworks, including four sculptures from 58 different artists, from the National Art Museum of China's collection. And they represent modern and contemporary artworks, partly reflecting back to the traditional Chinese painting and Chinese art, and partly reflecting to Western influences in art, which mostly started arriving in China after the 1970s and the 80s," said FegyvAri-Komori.

Much of the exhibition showcases traditional Chinese brushwork, where delicate strokes create intricate designs and meanings that express deep philosophical meanings, allowing viewers to experience the world from their perspective.

"The Chinese curators constructed the exhibition around these three topics and these three main aspects to approach Xieyi itself. The first one is called 'yi', which translates as meaning. This focuses on the essence of the topic. The second one is form, which in Chinese is 'xing,' and it's quite similar to meaning, but from a different approach. They are focusing on the form itself that they see, but they are not aiming at mirroring reality. The third one is called 'interest,' or in Chinese called 'qu.' And in this last part, I would say that it's a combination of the first two," said FegyvAri-Komori.

One standout piece is a sculpture that blends mythology and modern art, depicting Lao Tzu departing from the Qin Empire (221 BC to 207 BC), carrying the wisdom that shaped Taoist thought with him. The ox-head panther he rides symbolizes mysticism and the spiritual journey, adding another mythical dimension to the work.

"It expresses Xieyi very well, but at the same time, it also expresses a little bit of Western modern art, abstract art," said FegyvAri-Komori.

For many visitors, the exhibition is a chance to experience the dynamic evolution of Chinese art.

"My father had several books about Chinese art, about porcelains, ceramics, and paintings. It always struck me how different it is from our European tradition. There's a subtlety and sensitivity in it. The way they express emotions feels so unique and profound," said Daniel, a visitor.

The exhibition, part of celebrations of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Hungary and China, celebrates cultural exchange and shared appreciation for art and culture.

Contemporary Chinese art expo held in Hungary helps cultivate ties between east and west