Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu announced his resignation on Monday, citing the failure of the ruling coalition to meet one of its key objectives following a disappointing outcome in the first round of the country’s presidential election rerun.

Speaking at the Social Democratic Party (PSD) headquarters, Ciolacu said the coalition “lacks legitimacy in its current form” after Crin Antonescu, the coalition’s presidential candidate, failed to qualify for the runoff scheduled for May 18.

The decision comes amid growing political uncertainty in Romania, as the PSD officially withdrew from the governing alliance formed in December 2024 with the National Liberal Party (PNL), the Democratic Alliance of Hungarians in Romania (UDMR), and minority representatives.

While Ciolacu steps down, PSD ministers will remain temporarily in their posts as talks progress with coalition partners to form an interim government. Interim President Ilie Bolojan has acknowledged Ciolacu’s resignation, and a new interim Prime Minister is expected to be appointed on Tuesday, according to a statement from the Presidential Administration.

Under Romanian law, an interim government may serve for up to 45 days. During this period, it may only manage day-to-day administrative functions until a new cabinet is officially appointed and sworn in.

The resignation marks a significant shift in Romania’s political landscape and comes at a critical time as the nation prepares for the final round of the presidential election.