Traian Băsescu claims that Sorin Grindeanu will control the government through Marian Neacșu, while Prime Minister Luca Niculescu could become the target of criticism

Traian Băsescu said on Sunday, on Digi24, that PSD leader Sorin Grindeanu would control the government through Deputy Prime Minister Marian Neacșu, while Prime Minister Luca Niculescu could end up bearing the consequences of decisions made by the political party. The former president’s statements represent his assessment of the balance of power within the government.

Băsescu said that Neacșu, considered an experienced politician, would convey to PSD ministers the decisions and directions set by the party leader. In his view, the government would be controlled by the PSD not from Victoria Palace, but from the party’s headquarters, where Grindeanu could periodically summon ministers to reaffirm his authority.

The former head of state predicted that Prime Minister Luca Niculescu could become the target of Grindeanu’s attacks if the adopted measures caused discontent or if the government encountered difficulties. Băsescu said that the prime minister had accepted this arrangement after reportedly having the freedom to choose how to form the government.

In the same interview, Traian Băsescu described the government as a minority government, without a permanent parliamentary majority. He argued that the PSD must take responsibility for the problems attributed to the previous government led by Marcel Ciolacu and for the results of the new governing arrangement.