A new investigation published on Thursday, May 21, by independent journalists at Recorder revealed how political connections trumped competence in the leadership appointments in the Romanian Police, allegedly contributing to delayed reactions, failed investigations, and a lack of safety.  According to data collected by Recorder from all county police inspectorates across the country, more than 600 leadership positions in the Romanian Police were occupied through temporary appointment. Out of the 41 county inspectorates, almost one-third were led by chief inspectors appointed through temporary delegation.  Political control The delegations bypassed “the evaluation of an officer’s competencies and made them dependent on the decision of the person who appointed them, favoring political control, especially in the case of important leadership positions,” according to the authors of the investigation. The practice began years ago, encouraged by various interior ministers, irrespective of party.