Romania’s Social Democratic Party (PSD) will not attend ruling coalition meetings until several policy conditions are met, interim party president Sorin Grindeanu said on August 11, according to Digi24. The decision follows internal party discussions that were formally prompted by the reformist Save Romania Union’s (USR’s) opposition to a day of mourning for former president Ion Iliescu.

The ruling coalition, led by Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan, has been under strain in recent weeks over policy differences, particularly on fiscal reforms and public sector restructuring. The PSD’s demands are broader than the administrative reforms proposed by the prime minister, but their general formulation leaves room for negotiation.

Grindeanu outlined demands including the adoption of a package to “eliminate privileges” such as special pensions, the reduction of state agencies and a cut in the number of board members at state-owned enterprises. He also called for continued public investment under the Anghel Saligny infrastructure programme and consultations with the Ministry of Finance on budget execution and upcoming budget rectification.

“The PSD conditions participation in coalition meetings on the adoption of a package to eliminate privileges. When these things are adopted, the PSD will return to coalition meetings,” Grindeanu said. He added that the party’s priorities include continuing both large and small-scale investments, before moving on to a third policy package covering health, education, fiscal measures and economic recovery initiatives.

Grindeanu stressed the importance of the Anghel Saligny programme, saying, “It is for the Romanians”. He also criticised unnamed ministers for focusing on complaints about their predecessors rather than pursuing public policy.

While Grindeanu did not announce a withdrawal from the coalition, his statements indicate a boycott of its formal meetings. Political observers view the move as part of internal positioning within PSD ahead of its upcoming congress, where Grindeanu is seeking a full term as leader.