Traian Basescu

Traian Băsescu was elected President of Romania on December 12, 2004, defeating Adrian Năstase. He ran on an anti-corruption platform and served two terms until 2014, focusing on judicial reform, EU integration, and combating high-level corruption.

Under Băsescu's presidency, Romania joined the European Union on January 1, 2007. He played a key role in pushing through necessary reforms, though the EU continued to monitor Romania's progress on judicial reform and corruption.

Băsescu was suspended from office by parliament on April 19, 2007, on charges of unconstitutional conduct. A referendum on his impeachment was held on May 19, 2007, but he survived with 74% of voters opposing removal, allowing him to return to office.

Băsescu was suspended again by parliament on July 6, 2012, amid a political power struggle with Prime Minister Victor Ponta. A referendum on July 29, 2012, saw 88% vote for removal, but turnout was below the required threshold, so he remained in office.