AUR proposes limiting public spending on the president’s companions without official status during foreign trips

The AUR party has submitted a bill that would limit the use of public funds for people accompanying the president of Romania on foreign trips without holding a position or official status recognized by law. The initiative targets Mirabela Grădinaru, President Nicușor Dan’s partner, who AUR MP Dumitrina Mitrea claims participated in international events at the state’s expense.

The bill provides that transportation, accommodation and other travel costs could be covered from the state budget only for people who hold public office, a legal mandate or another official capacity. In addition, people without legal status could no longer be appointed, accredited or presented as representatives of the president or of Romania.

Dumitrina Mitrea says she asked the Presidential Administration and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for explanations regarding the legal basis on which Mirabela Grădinaru allegedly took part in the head of state’s foreign trips. The MP claims she received no answers and invokes the existence of a legislative gap.

The bill’s sponsor further argues that the title of “First Lady” does not represent a public office regulated in Romania, and that a personal relationship with the president does not confer the right to official representation. The bill is due to be examined by Parliament, while allegations concerning the use of public money must be clarified by the competent institutions.