Romanian Deputy PM Resigns Over Bribery Scandal

Deputy Prime Minister Dragoș Anastasiu announced his resignation on Sunday, citing ongoing personal attacks that he says harm the image of the Romanian government, CE Report quotes AGERPRES

Speaking at a press conference, Anastasiu said he could no longer be effective in his role due to the resurfacing of a past bribery case linked to his company, Touring Europabus Romania. The scandal dates back to 2009, when a tax inspection uncovered payroll irregularities. To avoid legal action, Anastasiu admitted to paying €2,000 monthly for eight years in bribes, disguised as consultancy fees. While the inspector involved was convicted in 2023, Anastasiu was not prosecuted.

Anastasiu defended his actions, calling the payment a "survival bribe" in a time when state bodies often pressured businesses. He emphasized that his resignation should not derail key reforms, particularly those targeting inefficient, heavily subsidized state-owned enterprises. He urged the prime minister to lead the new task force focused on public sector reform.

“We have RON 15 billion in subsidies annually, coming from every citizen’s pocket. This must change,” he said.