Romania's Central Electoral Bureau (BEC) has disqualified far-right candidate Călin Georgescu from the upcoming presidential election rerun, escalating political tensions and sparking violent protests in Bucharest. The decision follows the annulment of the previous election due to allegations of Russian interference aimed at favoring Georgescu's campaign. The exact reasons behind the BEC's ruling have not been fully detailed in official statements. However, reports have highlighted concerns about fraudulent practices and external influence operations, notably from Russia, during the annulled November 2024 election. In reaction to the BEC's decision, Georgescu's supporters flooded the streets of Bucharest, clashing with riot police. Protesters hurled rocks, firecrackers, and bottles, leading to injuries among law enforcement. Authorities responded with tear gas to disperse the crowds, underscoring the depth of public frustration surrounding the ban. Georgescu condemned the ruling, descr...