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Romanian lawmakers impeach president; EU ‘concerned’ about rule of law
Source: Associated Press
Romanian lawmakers impeach president; EU 'concerned' about rule of law
By Associated Press, Updated: Friday, July 6, 4:44 PM
BUCHAREST, Romania — Romanian lawmakers impeached President Traian Basescu in an overwhelming vote Friday, paving the way for a national referendum that could see the divisive and increasingly unpopular leader ousted from the powerful position he’s held for eight years.
The vote of 256-114 in parliament came as Basescu and Prime Minister Victor Ponta have engaged in a bitter power struggle in the eastern European country of 19 million. The machinations, especially attempts to sideline the judiciary, have drawn statements of concern from the European Union and the United States.
Basescu’s opponents accused him of overstepping his authority by meddling in government business and legal affairs. The 60-year-old former ship’s captain also was accused of making racist remarks about Gypsies and disabled people.
Senate Speaker Crin Antonescu, who will serve as interim president now that Basescu has been effectively suspended from the role, said a popular referendum on Basescu’s fate will be held July 29.
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By Associated Press, Updated: Friday, July 6, 4:44 PM
BUCHAREST, Romania — Romanian lawmakers impeached President Traian Basescu in an overwhelming vote Friday, paving the way for a national referendum that could see the divisive and increasingly unpopular leader ousted from the powerful position he’s held for eight years.
The vote of 256-114 in parliament came as Basescu and Prime Minister Victor Ponta have engaged in a bitter power struggle in the eastern European country of 19 million. The machinations, especially attempts to sideline the judiciary, have drawn statements of concern from the European Union and the United States.
Basescu’s opponents accused him of overstepping his authority by meddling in government business and legal affairs. The 60-year-old former ship’s captain also was accused of making racist remarks about Gypsies and disabled people.
Senate Speaker Crin Antonescu, who will serve as interim president now that Basescu has been effectively suspended from the role, said a popular referendum on Basescu’s fate will be held July 29.
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Read more: http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/romanian-lawmakers-vote-on-impeaching-president-eu-concerned-about-rule-of-law/2012/07/06/gJQA2UX8RW_story.html
