Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan on Tuesday said that he has never used the threat of resignation as a tool to pressure coalition partners, insisting that his leadership is based on responsibility and a commitment to effective governance.

Speaking on Antena 3 CNN private television broadcaster, Bolojan clarified that while he has never submitted or threatened to resign to influence negotiations, he believes strongly in insisting that government actions are carried out properly and transparently.

‘When you accept a public office, knowing the responsibilities and plans that come with it, it is an act of responsibility to push for things to be done correctly. (…) Otherwise, we risk falling back into the same difficulties we’ve faced before,’ Bolojan said.

He dismissed rumours about having a prepared resignation letter on his desk, describing such reports as baseless and part of the cycle of so-called „fake news” that often distorts the public agenda.

Addressing criticisms from coalition partner Social Democratic Party (PSD) regarding recent austerity measures, Bolojan acknowledged that no political party enjoys taking such steps but emphasised the necessity of shared responsibility.

‘Romania is in this situation partly because of our own past decisions. (…) It’s our duty, across all governing parties, to correct these issues. (…) This responsibility transcends party lines,’ he added.

Bolojan also stressed that his focus remains on pulling Romania out of its current economic deadlock, saying that it would be disrespectful to citizens to remain in office while knowing he couldn’t deliver results.

‘When you can no longer do what is needed, acknowledging it publicly is an act of responsibility and normalcy,’ the Prime Minister concluded, referencing his prior roles in local government where he said to have always acted in the public interest. AGERPRES