Romania’s President Klaus Iohannis said on September 26 that “under the optimal scenario” the two ministers suspected by anticorruption prosecutors of committing fraud should resign and if not, they should be dismissed. 

The president’s comments came after Romania’s National Anticorruption Directorate (DNA) started an investigation into Deputy Prime Minister Sevil Shhaideh and asked for the Senate’s approval to investigate European Funds Minister Rovana Plumb.

Individuals under criminal investigations should not be at the head of the state, Iohannis stated at a press conference on September 26.

In a more strongly worded statement, Iohannis wrote in a Facebook post that “maximum civic involvement” is needed.

“Those who advocate for the rule of law and a healthy society should speak up and have a voice,” Iohannis stressed.

On the other hand, Iohannis said he did not intend to take action against the two ministers. “There is no legal ground for me to suspend these ministers from their posts. In the case of Shhaideh, the accusations are related to deeds occurred at a time when she was state secretary — and such cases do not involve the presidency. In the case of Plumb [who is an MP], the parliament’s endorsement is required in the first stage and only afterwards can the investigations continue,” Iohannis stated.

Iohannis has previously clashed with the ruling Social Democratic Party (PSD) over attempts by the party to overturn legislation blocking officials convicted of corruption from holding high office. PSD leader Liviu Dragnea has been unable to take the position of prime minister since he has a criminal conviction.