Chair of Save Romania Union (USR) Dominic Fritz considers Deputy Prime Minister Oana Gheorghiu to be „an asset” to the Government, describing the criminal complaint filed by the Superior Council of Magistracy (CSM) over her remarks on magistrates’ special pensions as „an unnecessary escalation.”

„Oana Gheorghiu, in my view, is an asset for the Romanian Government. She is a woman who understands both the suffering of Romanians and their incredible power to mobilise. I believe she is exactly where she should be. We often complain about the political class, and often with good reason. Now someone has stepped into politics who has proven she has only the public good in mind. I am glad she is our colleague in government, and I am sure she will deliver for Romanians,” said the USR leader.

Regarding Gheorghiu’s comments on magistrates’ pensions, Fritz said he prefers politicians who „speak from the heart,” not those who follow „talking points” established by advisers.

„I am sure Oana Gheorghiu spoke out of disappointment, frustration, but also hope – feelings that many Romanians can understand,” he added.

The USR leader also called the criminal complaint against Gheorghiu „an unnecessary escalation” of the conflict, expressing hope she will not be intimidated.

„I think this is an unnecessary escalation of the conflict – perhaps a show of muscle, to put it diplomatically. It was an unfortunate action that does not help. What matters is that Oana Gheorghiu does not allow herself to be intimidated. I am sure this is not the first conflict she has faced. What we must all remember is that an overwhelming majority of Romanians support the reform of special pensions,” Fritz stated.

When asked in a Digi24 interview how she would address the issue of magistrates’ special pensions, Oana Gheorghiu said she understood the difficulty of giving up long-standing benefits but argued that the system was unsustainable and that Romania could no longer afford such payments without affecting essential public needs.

On Monday, the Superior Council of Magistracy said in a press release that Oana Gheorghiu’s statements violated the independence of the judiciary and the status of magistrates „in an irresponsible and populist manner.” AGERPRES