The liberal, pro-EU mayor of Bucharest, Nicusor Dan, has fought off a strong challenge from a Romanian right-wing nationalist to win the presidency after months of political turbulence.
George Simion, the leader of the far-right AUR party, won a dramatic first-round victory earlier this month, riding a wave of anger from Romanians who had seen the presidential race annulled late last year because of claims of Russian interference.
But it was the softly spoken Nicusor Dan who swept to victory, winning 54% of the vote in Romania, even though Simion was more successful in the diaspora.
“We need to build Romania together irrespective of who you voted for,” said Dan, once his victory was secure.
More than 11.6 million Romanians voted in Sunday’s run-off, and Dan attracted the support of more than six million of them.
The mathematician waited until after midnight on Sunday before he could be absolutely sure that the numbers were on his side and he could join his supporters in a park opposite City Hall in Bucharest.
They went wild, chanting his name and cheering. At one point he was almost mobbed but this was a huge moment for the president-elect and for his supporters after months of political tension.
“A community of Romanians who want a profound change in Romania won,” Dan said.
Mihai, one of many Dan supporters who gathered outside his electoral headquarters in the capital, told the BBC he was “really worried about Simion”.
“I want to choose the pro-European way. It’s the only way. It’s really important,” he added.
Andrea, who came with her young daughter, told the BBC: “We are so happy, we wanted to be here with other supporters of Nicosur.
“This means a better future for our children, for us. A good life for all of us, and an honest Romania.”
Getty ImagesRomanians are broadly unhappy with the dominance of mainstream parties and the turbulence in this European Union and Nato member state intensified earlier this month when the government collapsed because its candidate had failed to make the second round.
While Nicusor Dan campaigned on fighting corruption and maintaining support for north-eastern neighbour Ukraine, Simion attacked the EU and called for cutting aid to Kyiv.
“Russia, don’t forget, Romania isn’t yours,” Dan’s supporters chanted.