Calin Georgescu, a vocal critic of NATO and a supporter of Russia, secured almost 23 percent of the vote in the first round of the election, defying pre-election predictions where he had polled in the low single digits.
His surprise success has raised concerns about Romania's future foreign policy, as he faces a second-round runoff against centre-right opposition leader Elena Lasconi, who garnered around 19 percent of the vote.
The protest, organised through social media platforms, saw hundreds of students gather to express their opposition to Georgescu.
"I'm here because I believe in democracy. I believe that people should have a say in what's happening in their country. And I believe that going back to 35 years ago is not a solution to the problems we are facing right now," Georgescu said.
In response to the criticisms, Georgescu addressed: "I am accused of extremism, of being connected with close or far countries. It is totally false. I am completely dedicated, with all my heart and all my life, to the Romanian people."
The outcome of the second round of the election on 8 December could potentially shift Romania's political trajectory and challenge its pro-Western stance.
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