The government under the leadership of Pavel Filip, loyalist of oligarch Vlad Plahotniuc, was approved with urgent speed at a parliamentary session convened on Wednesday, January 20. The executive body under the leadership of Filip was approved by the votes of 57 deputies shortly after the session.
After the Socialists blocked the rostrum, the “parliamentary majority” at the suggestion of formal PDM leader Marian Lupu decided to omit the required process of questions and answers to members of the new government.
At the same time, thousands of people marched on the parliament to protest. They chanted in unison: “We are the people! Police, join us! Down with the Mafia! Early elections! Judas!”
Upon learning the news, the protesters decided to surround the parliament with a human chain to block all the entrances and exits of the building.
The regime pulled hundreds if not thousands of police and special forces, who lined up as a shield around the parliament.
Translator’s note: Subsequent live coverage by OMEGA news agency shows that protesters stormed the parliament building, where they were attacked by police in riot gear. At the time of posting, the occupation ongoing.
Translated by Greg Butterfield
Red Star News + Translations 