2024, the year of all elections. For the first time in more than 10 years, we will be called to the polls to elect MEPs, mayors, local councillors, MPs and the president of the country. There could be four or maybe even five ballots, if the presidential election also requires a second round and some of them are not merged.

The first test will come in June, in the European Parliament elections, an important test for the rest of the elections, which could shape future alliances.

The two governing parties, PSD and PNL, have decided to run separately, although at one point they were considering running on joint lists. On the other hand, the opposition is closing ranks to form alliances as alternatives to the current government. One of these is the centre-right parties - USR, Force of the Right and PMP - which have decided to form the United Right Alliance.

The three parties will run on joint lists and support a single presidential candidate. On the political scene, also in opposition, the sovereignist pole is taking shape, which has so far gathered eight parties around AUR. The first electoral test for the parties will be on 9 June, when Romania's representatives in the European Parliament will be elected. The date for the local elections is 29 September.

The dates for the parliamentary and presidential elections remain under discussion by the PSD-PNL governing coalition.

Translated by Radu Matei

SOURCE: Radio România Actualități