Președintele României (President of Romania)
The President of Romania is the head of state of Romania. The current President is Klaus Iohannis, who assumed office on December 21, 2014, and was re-elected in 2019.
Role and Powers
The President’s role is defined by the Romanian Constitution. They are responsible for representing the Romanian state both domestically and internationally. The President is also the guarantor of the Constitution’s respect and proper functioning of public authorities.
Key powers of the President include:
- Foreign Policy: Represents Romania in international relations, concludes treaties (subject to parliamentary ratification), and accredits diplomatic representatives.
- Defense and National Security: Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. Presides over the Supreme Defense Council (CSAT).
- Legislation: Promulgates laws (with the power to refer a law back to Parliament for reconsideration once), and may request Parliament to reconsider a law before its promulgation. Can address Parliament on matters of national interest.
- Executive Branch: Nominates the Prime Minister after consulting with the parties represented in Parliament. Appoints and revokes the Prime Minister, as well as members of the Government, based on the proposal of the Prime Minister (with some limitations).
- Judiciary: Nominates judges for the High Court of Cassation and Justice.
- Pardons and Commutations: Can grant individual pardons.
- Referendums: Can call for referendums on matters of national interest, after consulting with Parliament.
Election and Term
The President is elected by direct popular vote for a term of five years. A President can serve a maximum of two terms, consecutive or not.
The election process involves a two-round system. If no candidate wins more than 50% of the vote in the first round, a second round is held between the two candidates with the highest number of votes.
Limitations and Checks on Power
The President’s powers are not absolute and are subject to several checks and balances. Parliament can initiate impeachment proceedings against the President for serious violations of the Constitution. The Constitutional Court reviews the constitutionality of presidential decrees and actions.
Furthermore, the President’s power to appoint the Prime Minister is constrained by the need to find a candidate who can command a majority in Parliament. The government, headed by the Prime Minister, is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the country.
Significance
The President of Romania is a significant political figure, playing a crucial role in shaping the country’s domestic and foreign policy. While the government handles the executive functions, the President acts as a unifying figure and a representative of the nation.
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