Romania vote may not end political battle
- 12 years ago
Romania's prime minister casts his ballot as his leftist alliance is poised to win parliamentary elections.
But even if Victor Ponta's Social Liberal Union wins a clear majority, a power struggle with rightist President Traian Basescu may ensue.
The two have clashed before, with Ponta attempting to remove the president from office and the president suggesting he would appoint someone else premier.
Any political instability may complicate renewal of an IMF deal that expires in early 2013.
Analysts expect less than half of the electorate to cast ballots due to a deep dissatisfaction with politicians and corruption.
Some of those who did make it to the polls were hoping for change.
(SOUNDBITE) (Romanian) BUCHAREST RESIDENT, GHEORGHE, SAYING:
"The whole country, including me, got here so early because we have been waiting for today's election to somehow sort out the justice system and to cleanse things and to hear some actual wise words."
Rainy weather was no help to voter turnout and some polls were unable to open due to heavy snow.
But even if Victor Ponta's Social Liberal Union wins a clear majority, a power struggle with rightist President Traian Basescu may ensue.
The two have clashed before, with Ponta attempting to remove the president from office and the president suggesting he would appoint someone else premier.
Any political instability may complicate renewal of an IMF deal that expires in early 2013.
Analysts expect less than half of the electorate to cast ballots due to a deep dissatisfaction with politicians and corruption.
Some of those who did make it to the polls were hoping for change.
(SOUNDBITE) (Romanian) BUCHAREST RESIDENT, GHEORGHE, SAYING:
"The whole country, including me, got here so early because we have been waiting for today's election to somehow sort out the justice system and to cleanse things and to hear some actual wise words."
Rainy weather was no help to voter turnout and some polls were unable to open due to heavy snow.