Mass protests against corruption decree enters Day 4 in Romania

Romanians have taken to the streets for the fourth day protesting against a decree that would decriminalise minor graft offences with many thumbing down the move saying the country is “retreating in its fight against corruption”.

Thousands stormed the streets of Bucharest as the political crisis over the controversial decree showed no sign of easing even as Romania’s ombudsman earlier went to the Constitutional Court to challenge the decree that decriminalises abuse-of-power offences in which the sums do not exceed 200,000 lei ($48,000).

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If enforced, the decree would, among other things, decriminalise abuse-of-power offences in which the sums involved were less than 200,000 lei ($48,000).

According to reports, the marches against the government’s move followed similar protests last week as as judicial watchdog announces court challenge against the decree.

Even lawmakers were not left out as parliament opened for its first regular session of the year, with USR lawmakers parading banners that read “Shame” while other opposition deputies shouted “Resignation” and “Thieves”.

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