Romania’s 2009 presidential election probe under debate
A committee in the Romanian Parliament aimed at investigating the results of the 2009 presidential election is expected to meet on Wednesday for talks concerning a ruling of Romania’s Constitutional Court (CCR) issued on Tuesday. Commissioners are also expected to decide on a potential hearing of Laura Codruţa Kövesi, head of the country’s anti-corruption watchdog National Anti-Corruption Directorate (DNA), and order further evidence from other state institutions, committee chief Oana Florea told reporters on Tuesday. Ms. Kövesi should appear before the committee or answer questions in writing, according to CCR. The DNA chief repeatedly refused to appear before the committee investigating the results of the presidential elections eight years ago.
Protest rally called by Romanian trade unionists
A protest rally called by Romania’s Cartel Alfa Trade Union Confederation is expected in Piaţa Victoriei (Victory Square) of the capital Bucharest on Wednesday. Some 10,000 people are expected to attend the rally, according to Cartel Alfa sources. Protesters include workers with the country’s health and railway services among others. They are all expressing their discontent with changes in the wage and fiscal legislation as well as the so-called social dialogue law. „I am a simple employee. However, I have the right to be consulted”, one banner said. Traffic restrictions were imposed around the area.
New gas tariffs delayed
Romanian customers were expected to face higher bills for gas starting with October 1. However, the decision was delayed until next month, official sources said on Wednesday. Romania’s Parliament is expected to pass an emergency ordinance allowing changes to current legislation in the field including the obligation of gas providers to sell 70 percent of their production through the country’s stock market, Romania’ National Energy Regulatory Authority chief Nicolae Havrileţ told reporters on Wednesday. Gas prices for Romanian households were expected up by 6 percent starting with October 1.
Landmark win of Simona Halep over Maria Sharapova
Romanian second seed Simona Halep recorded her first victory over Maria Sharapova and advanced to the China Open quarter-finals with a 6-2 6-2 win. She won in 72 minutes to reach her second China Open quarter-final. Halep had previously lost seven straight match ups with the former world no.1. The world no.2 produced one more break before serving out the match and will be hoping for her second title of the season. The Russian, a former number one now languishing at 104 in the world rankings, is still searching for her first title since returning in April from a 15-month suspension for taking the banned substance meldonium.
Alexandru Danga, RADOR
