• Ion Iliescu, Romania's first freely elected president, has died at 95.
• He played a significant role in Romania's transition from communism to democracy.
• Iliescu faced numerous charges of crimes against humanity related to his political actions.
• The government announced plans for a state funeral and declared August 7 as a day of mourning.
• His legacy remains controversial and complex, marked by both significant achievements and criticisms.

Ion Iliescu, the former president who guided Romania through its tumultuous transition from communism to democracy, passed away on August 5 at the age of 95 due to complications from lung cancer. The Romanian government confirmed his death, extending condolences to his family and announcing a state funeral to honor a prominent figure in the country’s contemporary history, known for leading Romania towards Euro-Atlantic integration Le Monde, BBC, SCMP, Reuters, and LA Times.

Born on March 3, 1930, Iliescu was critical in toppling Nicolae Ceausescu's regime during the December 1989 revolution. Following the uprising, which saw over 1,100 casualties, he appointed himself leader of the interim government, the National Salvation Front. His presidency was marked by significant events, including Romania's NATO membership in 2004 and EU accession in 2007, yet it was shadowed by accusations of crimes against humanity related to the violent suppression of protests during his time in office Le Monde, Reuters, and LA Times.

Iliescu's legacy is complicated; while he helped establish democratic institutions, critics argue he often protected the old communist elite and delayed necessary reforms. His role in inciting violence during protests, particularly the Mineriad in 1990, resulted in years of controversy and charges against him, which were never resolved before his death BBC, SCMP, and Reuters.

The Romanian Social Democratic Party (PSD), which he founded, expressed deep sorrow over his passing, commemorating him as a courageous leader who faced Ceausescu's regime and helped steer the nation towards democracy. His death leaves behind many unresolved questions regarding his actions and the broader implications for Romania's post-communist transition LA Times, Reuters, and BBC.