Former Romanian President Ion Iliecu died at the age of 95

Former Romanian President Ion Iliescu, who chaired the country’s chaotic transition from communism to democracy, has died at the age of 95.

Iliescu was diagnosed with lung cancer and hospitalized in early June in the capital of Romania, Bucharest.

“With a deep regret, the government announces the transition of the former President of Romania, Jon Ion,” a government statement said, adding that details of a state funeral would soon be shared.

Iliescu is the first freely elected President of Romania and has served twice, from 1986-1996 and 2000-2004. He was accused of crimes against humanity for the violent uprising that reduced the communist regime of Romania in 1989, but always denied misconduct.

The allegations were filed in 2019, but he was never condemned.

In a separate case, he was also charged with his role in summoning miners to crush student protests after his election in 1990.

The bloody repression, which has become known as the mineriad, has attracted a wide international condemnation.

Prior to his latest hospitalization, I needed regular medical examinations at Elias Hospital in Bucharest.

In 2019, he underwent pericardial effusion surgery – a condition affecting the heart.

Born on March 3, 1930, in the southern city of Altenten, Iliums has largely withdrawn from public life in recent years, although he occasionally shares written messages on his personal blog.

His last post, on May 19, congratulated the liberal, EU mayor of being elected president.