Romanian President's behaviour towards the press, "spilt out" at the European Commission

Miercuri, 23 septembrie 2009, 16:37 English | Top News

Social-democratic MEP Catalin Ivan, sent a letter to the European Commission, highlighting President Traian Basescu's behaviour towards the press. The letter was addressed to Margot Wallstrom - Communication commissionaire, and to Jacques Barrot, Justice commissioner. According to procedures, the European Commissioner responsible on the matter must reply.

The Romanian MEP accuses Basescu for calling the journalists "bastards" several days ago. He also claims that the journalists feel neglected in front of such behaviour and abuse. The letter also reads that this is no example of dignified behaviour for a European leader.

In his letter, several other abuses Basescu exercised on press members are mentioned as well. For instance, when Romania's President snatched the mobile of a lady journalist who interviewed him, calling her "stinking Gypsy". On another occasion, not knowing the answer to the question he was asked, he invited the lady journalist in his office to show her "how to do it".

The PSD member of the European Parliament asks the European commission to "nail to the ground such a behaviour", whenever the freedom of the press is undermined.