In pictures: Thousands protest in Romania ahead of election rerun

Tens of thousands of protesters gathered in Romania’s capital on Saturday in an anti-government demonstration led by far-right groups. (AP photo)

The protest follows the annulment of last year’s presidential election by the country’s top court. (AP photo)

Protesters assembled in front of the government building in Bucharest, waving Romania’s tricolor flag and chanting slogans such as “Down with the Government” and “Thieves.” Many voiced support for Calin Georgescu, the frontrunner in December’s cancelled election, demanding that voting resume from the second round. (AP photo)

George Simion, leader of the far-right Alliance for the Unity of Romanians (AUR), addressed the crowd, saying, “We are united, we are strong. We are here because our vote was stolen. Because democracy was trampled on.” He called for Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu’s resignation. (AP photo)

The Constitutional Court annulled the December election just two days before the runoff, following Georgescu’s unexpected first-round victory. Allegations of electoral violations and Russian interference emerged, though Moscow has denied involvement. (AP photo)

On Wednesday, prosecutors launched a criminal investigation against Georgescu, accusing him of supporting fascist groups and making false declarations regarding campaign financing. He has been placed under judicial control but denies any wrongdoing. (AP photo)

The first round of the election rerun is scheduled for May 4, with a possible runoff on May 18. It remains unclear whether Georgescu will be allowed to participate. (AP photo)