Bucharest Mayor's Poignant Election Day Plea: 'Don't Let the Sad Past Return'

Bucharest Mayor Urges Romanians to Vote, Recalling 'Sad' Past. Daniel Băluță, mayor of Sector 4 in Bucharest, issued a passionate appeal for Romanians to participate in the ongoing elections. Speaking to reporters outside a polling station on May 18th, 2025, Băluță contrasted the present with Romania's situation 35 years ago, describing the earlier period as "a very sad country." He emphasized the importance of voting to ensure progress and prevent a return to those difficult times. "Today is a special day," Băluță stated, "and on my way to the polling station, I urge all Romanians to be present because today, more than ever, we need voter turnout." He also credited the European Union's funding for positive changes in Sector 4, stating that 'European funds are in euros and not in rubles,' highlighting the economic progress made. Băluță's remarks underscore the significance of the elections and the hope for a brighter future for Romania.