Romanian lawmakers rejected a proposed center-right Cabinet led by Siegfried Muresan, prolonging the country’s political crisis.

The Cabinet received 182 votes in favor, well short of the 233 needed for approval, with the Social Democratic Party and nationalist AUR party opposing it. 

The crisis began in May when Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan was removed through a no-confidence vote, and previous attempts to form a new government have also failed.

President Nicusor Dan plans to consult political parties before nominating another prime minister, while early elections remain a possibility under Romania’s constitutional rules, the AP has reported.

The political deadlock comes as Romania faces economic difficulties and security concerns, including increased drone incursions linked to Russia’s war in neighboring Ukraine.