Lucian Pahonțu Refutes 1989 Revolution and 1990 Mineriad Allegations

Lucian Pahonțu has firmly denied accusations regarding his involvement in the 1989 Revolution and the 1990 Mineriad, stating on August 31 that the claims against him are "untrue and unfounded." These allegations were initially brought to light by an article from Recorder, published on August 26, which suggested that Pahonțu concealed sensitive aspects of his career and was involved in violent actions during these historical events.

The Recorder article alleged that Pahonțu, who did not dispute being the nephew of Vasile Milea, the last communist Defense Minister who died under suspicious circumstances on December 22, 1989, served as a Security Troops officer from 1987 to 1990. It claimed he was part of the forces repressing revolutionaries in December 1989. However, Pahonțu has categorically denied any involvement in the violent repression on December 21, 1989, and refuted being present at the Intercontinental barricade.

Pahonțu clarified his role as a platoon commander with the Security Troops from 1987 to 1989. He explained that on December 21, 1989, his company was relocated to three different sites, including a position on 13 Decembrie street from 10 PM to 2 AM. During this time, they were without ammunition and had no direct interactions with the revolutionaries. On the following day, December 22, 1989, his unit allowed protesters into Piata Republicii, where the soldiers received flowers and food from the demonstrators, before returning to their barracks with their ammunition intact.

Regarding the 1990 Mineriad, Pahonțu emphasized that his unit remained in the barracks throughout the event. This claim is supported by records from the Jandarmeria Română archives. President Nicușor Dan, on August 28, also defended Pahonțu, asserting that he was not involved in any repressive actions. Pahonțu's career has been repeatedly reviewed by various institutions, and he remains confident that forthcoming checks by CNSAS will corroborate his statements.

The events of 1989 and 1990 continue to be the subject of ongoing criminal investigations, maintaining a significant interest in the historical and legal evaluation of these periods.