BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) – Romania’s government collapsed Wednesday after thousands of people took to the streets to protest a deadly fire at a heavy metal concert, the final straw after a five-month corruption investigation that has shaken the nation.
Prime Minister Victor Ponta said he and his government would resign “to take note of the legitimate grievances which exist in society,” adding: “I hope handing in my and my government’s mandate will satisfy the demands of protesters.” But thousands of people turned out for new protests Wednesday evening demanding early elections and more accountability in government.
Even before last weekend’s fire, the deadliest in Romania’s history, Ponta faced widespread calls to resign as he was tried on charges including tax evasion, money laundering, conflict of interest and making false statements. The charges relate to activities in 2007 and 2008, when he was a lawmaker and a lawyer. Ponta denies wrongdoing.
Then came the fire Friday night at the basement Colectiv nightclub, which sent panicked people stampeding for the single exit. The death toll stands at 32, with about 130 more hospitalized, dozens of them in serious or critical condition. The club’s three owners have been detained on manslaughter charges for allegedly failing to comply with fire regulations. Many Romanians also suspect authorities of taking bribes to overlook the violations.
After three days of mourning, some 20,000 people took to the streets Tuesday night in a spontaneous protest, shouting “Assassins!” and waving Romanian flags.