Romania Opposition Claims 'Vote Rigged' in President Elections

Earlier, exit polls had predicted victory for his Social Democrat rival, former Foreign Minister Mircea Geoana (above). Photo by BGNES

Romania's opposition Social Democrat party says Sunday's presidential election was rigged and plans to contest the result.

Official results showed incumbent President Traian Basescu with a winning margin of less than 1%.

Earlier, exit polls had predicted victory for his Social Democrat rival, former Foreign Minister Mircea Geoana, the BBC reported.

Both candidates had claimed victory on Sunday night in what correspondents describe as a bitter contest.

"We have proof of fraud," Social Democrat vice-president Liviu Dragnea was quoted as saying.

"The exit poll, the large number of annulled votes... massive electoral tourism and other things obviously force us to contest the result."

Election officials said centre-right President Basescu had won 50.33% of votes compared to Geoana's 49.66%, with 99.95% of votes counted.

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