Traian Băsescu, about General Pahonțu: "It's time for him to come alongside me, look, in Cișmigiu, we can play chess together or backgammon. It's time for him to switch to retirement mode."

Traian Băsescu, former president of Romania, commented on the mandate of the head of SPP, Lucian Pahonțu, stating that he has a 'much too large' role in the institution. Băsescu characterized Pahonțu as being part of the 'category of young retirees', who retire early, at 50 years old, but later regret the lack of a job.

The former president emphasized that Pahonțu was lucky to be re-employed as a state secretary, thus remaining in office. Băsescu suggested that it is time for Pahonțu to retire, inviting him to join him for a game of chess or backgammon in Cișmigiu. This statement reflects Băsescu's opinion on the need to make room for new generations in public office.

"As for the length of Mr. Pahonțu's mandate, we must recognize and he must also recognize that it is much too long. I understand him, he is from the category of young retirees. They retire young at 50 and then regret not having a job. He had the chance that the president re-employed him as a state secretary, keeping him in office. I think it's time for him to come alongside me, look, in Cișmigiu, we can play chess or backgammon together. It's time for him to transition to retirement status," said Traian Băsescu on B1 TV, Wednesday evening.