Oana Gheorghiu accuses “extremist” politicians of infiltrating the shepherds’ protest and causing violence and chaos in Victory Square

Interim Deputy Prime Minister Oana Gheorghiu accused politicians whom she described as “extremists” of infiltrating the shepherds’ protest held Tuesday in Victory Square and provoking the violence that broke out during the demonstration. She delivered the message on Facebook after several thousand farmers gathered outside the government headquarters.

Oana Gheorghiu did not name the politicians in question, but said they had tried to distort the purpose of the action and incite violence. “You are entirely responsible for today’s violence,” the interim deputy prime minister wrote.

She said people have the right to protest peacefully over demands they consider legitimate and described peaceful protest as a pillar of democracy.

The demonstration had also been promoted by supporters of former presidential candidate Călin Georgescu. On the same day, AUR organized an action at the party’s headquarters near Victory Square, while George Simion called on protesters not to resort to violence. AUR MP Gianina Șerban and a party delegation were not allowed by the gendarmes to join the protest. MEP Diana Șoșoacă, in turn, called for street actions.