Thuma Criticizes Bolojan Over Tax Hikes & Local Funding

A leading Romanian political figure has publicly criticized a senior colleague, in a move seen as escalating tensions within the National Liberal Party (PNL). While not naming names, Hubert Thuma’s comments are widely understood to be directed at Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan.

“In recent days, many mayors have been blamed for the increase in local taxes and fees. However, it was not the mayors who decided on this increase,” Thuma wrote in a Facebook post. “I believe in accurate information. Therefore, I am coming to you with some important clarifications. The framework was changed at the national level, through the fiscal package that came into effect on January 1, 2026, and through the ordinance from December 2025, which modified the rules for the new year. And the public message was clear: those who do not comply risk losing money through transfers from the state budget. In short, the rules have changed at the central level, but the mayors have been left to manage the bill. In other words, the pressure of the deficit has been pushed to the local level.”

Thuma added that local taxes and fees paid by citizens do not constitute the main part of a local budget, especially in developed areas, and that local budgets primarily rely on two major sources: the real economy, through income tax redistributed to communities, and investments and European funds. This debate comes as Romanian taxpayers have seen their taxes nearly double as of January 1, 2026, with Bolojan previously stating the increases would contribute to local budgets and improve conditions for residents.

“If we want strong local administrations without burdening people, there are healthier solutions,” Thuma continued, offering three suggestions: “more income tax remaining in communities,” “increasing revenues through the economy, not through burdens on the population,” and “investments, jobs, a predictable and attractive fiscal climate.”

He concluded with a pointed message, clearly aimed at Prime Minister Bolojan: “Don’t blame the mayors for a decision made at the center. Mayors keep communities afloat, day after day.”

Thuma is known as one of the most influential leaders within the PNL, despite maintaining a relatively low public profile. This recent statement marks a departure from his usual practice of avoiding public political commentary.

Sources indicate Thuma is an opponent of current PNL President Ilie Bolojan, and has frequently asserted his position within the party. For example, Thuma reportedly played a key role in securing Crin Antonescu as the PSD-PNL candidate in the May 2025 presidential election. He also opposed the candidacy of Ciprian Ciucu for the December 2025 Bucharest mayoral election, favoring Stelian Bujduveanu – though Bolojan ultimately prevailed in that instance.

The exchange highlights the ongoing political maneuvering within Romania’s governing party, as local officials grapple with the implications of new fiscal policies. The situation underscores the challenges of balancing national economic goals with the needs of local communities.