Bucharest: Romanian authorities have launched an investigation into an event commemorating Corneliu Zelea Codreanu, the 1930s leader of the violently antisemitic Iron Guard movement. The probe comes after several individuals, including Diana Sosoaca, leader of the far-right SOS Romania party, were seen participating in the event held near Bucharest on the 86th anniversary of Codreanu’s death.
Codreanu led the Iron Guard, a pre-World War II extremist group infamous for political assassinations and deep-seated antisemitism. Approximately dozens attended the commemoration in Ilfov County. Police confirmed the investigation on Sunday, stating, “The investigation aims to identify all the participants to the event, as well as establish what the context was and to take the required legal measures.”
Sosoaca, a European Parliament member known for her far-right and pro-Russian views, live-streamed herself lighting candles at the site of Codreanu’s death. Responding defiantly to the investigation, she said, “It is my business who I consider a patriot,” while accusing authorities of using intimidation tactics on election day.
Romania’s laws prohibit the promotion of fascist leaders and symbols associated with racism, xenophobia, or Nazism. Violations are punishable by prison, although such cases rarely lead to convictions.
Sosoaca has previously faced scrutiny for her praise of Codreanu and Ion Antonescu, Romania’s World War II leader who was executed for his role in the Holocaust. A prior investigation into her activities was closed without charges.
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The commemoration coincided with Romania’s parliamentary election on Sunday, where far-right parties are anticipated to gain influence. Political analysts suggest that while Sosoaca was barred from running for president by Romania’s top court, her party is likely to secure seats in the legislature, potentially joining other ultra-nationalist factions.
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Images published by local media showed participants at the commemoration waving Iron Guard flags and performing Nazi salutes, further intensifying concerns about the resurgence of extremist ideologies in Romanian politics.
