SDP and NLP have officially launched their joint candidate for the Capital’s mayoral seat on Happiness Day. Party leaders, Marcel Ciolacu and Nicolae Ciucă, alternated in presenting the reasons behind their unified choice, with Ciolacu particularly emphasizing his critique of the incumbent mayor, Nicușor Dan.
“Even if we did not bring joy on Happiness Day, I believe we provided the normality that all Romanians expect. Ciolacu asked me how long we have been governing. It’s been two and a half years, and it has worked. That is why, for the European elections, we are showing unity and creating a strong list that truly represents the interests of Romanians. In the same vein, we found it appropriate and necessary to nominate a joint candidate for mayor, and that is Cătălin Cîrstoiu. We chose not a politician, but a man who has dedicated his life to serving people from dawn to dusk, in an institution where everybody turns when in dire need for help”, Nicolae Ciucă stated at the presentation ceremony.
He pointed out that the chosen candidate is not “interested in business and Tv debates”.
“His focus is on getting things done. He leads a team of 3,500, treats half a million patients annually, and most importantly, manages crisis situations daily. With Bucharest facing a crisis, we need someone with his skill set. His life’s achievements and the expertise he’s gained managing an institution like the University Hospital, come from his ability to lead and to unite a team’s resources. See you at the City Hall of the Capital”, Ciucă stated.
In turn, the social-democratic leader Marcel Ciolacu painted the portrait of the future mayor of Bucharest.
“I am tired of hearing excuses for why things cannot be done. As the elections approach, politicians offer justifications, claiming their opponents clipped their wings and obstructed their grand visions. We need a General Mayor who can stand shoulder to shoulder with other European and world mayors. Yet, I have not seen such leadership. Thirty-two years after the Revolution, we still need better roads, adequate heating, and a broader perspective – we get lost discussing every tree in the forest. Since becoming Prime Minister, the General Mayor has never sought my assistance”, Marcel Ciolacu expressed.
He also mentioned that he would have helped the current mayor had he asked for his support.
“If he had come to me, we would certainly have sought solutions. What we inherit is a Bucharest lacking a program and perspective. The General Mayor is boasts about the initiatives and projects left by Firea. Dr. Cirstoiu did not simply wait with an outstretched hand for government support; he undertook European projects and advanced the development of the University Hospital”, he praised his preferred candidate.
On the other hand, Ciolacu pointed out that “did not quarrel with either Firea or Burduja”, after Gabi Firea, from the SDP, and Sebastian Burduja, on behalf of the liberals, failed to persuade the leaders of the two parties that they are the best options.
