Valeriu Stoica, a former president of Romania’s PNL, stated that Prime Minister Luca Niculescu is not the true leader of the current government but instead serves as a mediator between PSD ministers, those proposed by President Nicușor Dan, and PSD leader Sorin Grindeanu. Stoica made the remarks during an interview on Digi24’s “În Fața Ta” program, broadcast on Sunday at 14:00.
Stoica described Niculescu’s role as that of a diplomat navigating a “circus arena with untamed beasts,” praising his cultural refinement and ability to facilitate dialogue. He argued that Grindeanu, though not in government, seeks to maintain public perception of his influence to retain his position within PSD. “Sorin Grindeanu did not accept the premiership, but he realizes that if he does not project the image of pulling the strings, he will gradually lose his standing in the party,” Stoica said .
The former PNL leader also characterized the current coalition as atypical, formed between PSD and President Dan rather than a traditional party alliance. He suggested the government could endure until 2028 unless Niculescu resigns, though he did not specify potential reasons for such a step .
Stoica further claimed that PSD’s communication strategy is failing and that the party risks losing electoral support to AUR, which he predicted could become the dominant force in their political space. He noted that an official PSD-AUR alliance might emerge if Niculescu steps down, though he doubted Niculescu would join PSD .
