Klaus Iohannis, the President of Romania, has resigned from his position, citing the initiation of impeachment proceedings against him. The announcement came on February 10, 2025, shortly after the Romanian Parliament convened a plenary session to discuss the impeachment referendum.
Iohannis, who was elected in 2019, argued that the impeachment proceedings were "unnecessary" and "unfounded" as he had never violated the Constitution. He stated that the process would only serve to divide society and distract from the upcoming presidential elections.
Iohannis also expressed concern about the international perception of Romania, stating that "no one will understand why Romania is dismissing its president." He concluded by saying that he was resigning to "spare Romania and Romanian citizens from this crisis, this unnecessary and negative evolution."
Iohannis will leave office on February 12, 2025. The rescheduled presidential elections are scheduled for May 4 and 18, 2025. Until then, the presidency will be held by the head of the Senate, Ilie Bolojan.