Romanian's coalition government fell on Thursday after Social Democratic Party (PSD) ministers resigned in protest against the dismissal of fellow PSD member, Interior Minister Dan Nica.

Three days ago Prime Minister Emil Boc dismissed Minister Nica after he expressed doubts about the fairness of the upcoming presidential election. The prime minister also proposed replacing him with a member of his own Liberal Democrat party (PDL). President Traian Basescu approved the move. The PSD fears the president is trying to influence the presidential election, scheduled for 22 November.
 

The minority government will probably be able to rule until the election, but will have to seek parliamentary approval for new ministerial appointments. The government crisis could have far-reaching consequences as it could affect the country's ability to meet conditions set by the International Monetary Fund for emergency loans totalling around 20 million euros.