President Nicușor Dan condemns candle protest targeting journalist Cristian Tudor Popescu

A group of followers of pro-Russian figure Călin Georgescu gathered for several days in front of the capital’s detention center, where they lit candles forming the initials of veteran journalist Cristian Tudor Popescu and performed the song “Veșnica pomenire.” The incident was captured on video and quickly circulated on social networks, drawing widespread rebuke. President Nicușor Dan responded on Facebook and X, labeling the act unacceptable and warning that journalists must not become targets of intimidation, harassment, or violence for their views.

He reiterated that freedom of the press is enshrined in the constitution and must be upheld irrespective of political sympathies. The supporters involved are under a 30-day preventive arrest on charges of fraud and organized crime. Cristian Tudor Popescu also reacted publicly on Facebook to the images circulating online.