Romania’s President-elect Klaus Iohannis said the political class is responsible for failing to create, in the 25 years that have passed since the 1989 Revolution, a space adequate to people’s aspirations, forcing them to go abroad.

“This is a nation with strong aspirations. If they wouldn’t have had these aspirations, millions of Romanians wouldn’t have gone abroad. All those who have been or are part of the political class, for the past 25 years or for a few months, must admit frankly and directly: yes, we have a responsibility. The political class is responsible for failing to create here, in Romania, a space for fulfilling these aspirations,” said Iohannis in Timisoara, on the occasion of a ceremony which marked 25 years since the start of the Romanian Revolution, on December 16, 1989.

Iohannis believes that the great disappointment of the people came not only from the lack of results, but because the promises were not fulfilled, and new promises were made over the old ones. He said that the political class didn’t fully understand that responsibility comes with freedom and responsibility to the people comes with power.

“The effects of this are everywhere. The relationship between politicians and citizens has seriously deteriorated. The partnership was replaced by mistrust,” he added, according to local Agerpres.

Klaus Iohannis was elected president on November 16, following an unexpected victory over Prime Minister Victor Ponta, and in just a few weeks he became one of the most popular politicians not only in Romania, but in Europe. Iohannis managed to get almost 1.3 million likes on his Facebook page, more than any politician in Europe. His autobiography “Pas cu Pas” (Step by Step) has sold more than 100,000 copies, which is a lot for a book in Romania.

After his election as president, the Romanians’ trust in the presidential institution has seen a significant increase. Iohannis also tops the trust ranking, surpassing central bank governor Mugur Isarescu.

Klaus Iohannis will take over from current president Traian Basescu on December 21.

Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-insider.com