Iliescu's death was confirmed by the government of Romania, with plans for a state funeral pending. Born on March 3, 1930, in Oltenița, Iliescu became a significant figure in Romanian history, serving as president from 1990 to 1996 and again from 2000 to 2004. Though he faced accusations of crimes against humanity related to the violent overthrow of the communist regime in 1989, he consistently denied any wrongdoing, and charges brought against him in 2019 were never resolved.
His controversial presidency included the notorious Mineriad, in which he called upon miners to suppress student protests in 1990, leading to international condemnation of his actions. In recent years, he had largely retreated from public life but still occasionally communicated through his blog. His last message, a congratulatory note to Bucharest’s mayor on May 19, reflects his enduring interest in Romanian politics despite his health struggles.
His controversial presidency included the notorious Mineriad, in which he called upon miners to suppress student protests in 1990, leading to international condemnation of his actions. In recent years, he had largely retreated from public life but still occasionally communicated through his blog. His last message, a congratulatory note to Bucharest’s mayor on May 19, reflects his enduring interest in Romanian politics despite his health struggles.
