Bucharest protest against government coalition, in support of former anti-graft prosecutor

Hundreds of people gathered in the capital’s University Square on Saturday, March 30, to protest against the justice law changes, the ruling PSD – ALDE coalition, and justice minister Tudorel Toader, and ask for the Government’s resignation. They also showed support for the former head of the anti-corruption directorate (DNA) Laurei Codruţa Kovesi, currently under judicial investigation and barred from leaving the country.

The protesters, carrying flags of the European Union and of Romania, chanted slogans such as “Kovesi, do not forget, we are on your side,” “United we save Romania,” “Europe”, “All for justice” or slogans against the PSD - ALDE coalition, such as “We don’t want to be led by thieves,” “Resignation,” “Down with the Government,” Stiri.tvr.ro reported.

Among the protesters gathered in University Square were film director Stere Gulea, singer and actor Tudor Chirilă, and former healthcare minister Vlad Voiculescu.

Protesters gathered in other cities in the country as well, including in Timișoara, where a human chain formed in the square in front of the Opera House building. Philosopher Mihai Șora, one of the most recognizable figures of the anticorruption protests of the past years, was among those protesting in Timișoara.

Both the University Square in Bucharest and the Opera Square in Timișoara are symbolic venues for Romania’s 1989 Revolution, as many protesters gathered at the time in these spots.

(Photo source: Inquam Photos / Liviu Florin Albei)