Traian Băsescu, the biased arbiter in the fight between Boc and Blaga for the helm of PDL
Autumn of 2000. In front of an enthusiastic crowd, Petre Roman launches his candidature for the presidential elections. Traian Băsescu is the one who introduces the candidate. "Petre, you're the best!" Băsescu shouts out, waving his hands in the air. In the spring of next year, Petre Roman was to be removed from the helm of PD (Democratic Party) by the same Băsescu. Now it was Băsescu's time to shine. Supporting Emil Boc for leader of PDL (ruling Democratic Liberal Party, former PD), Băsescu shows he has not managed even six years into his presidency to separate himself from his former party, which he continues to try to control. The party has the same problem: it cannot tear itself away from Traian Băsescu, the man who secured it major political victories.
Traian Băsescu will be present at the meeting of the democratic-liberals. Will his presence put pressure on the delegates to vote for Emil Boc? It's difficult to say.