Romania ? President Traian Basescu said Friday he would not resign, a day after he was suspended by Romania’s opposition-dominated parliament amid allegations that he abused his position.

Basescu – who had warned he would step down and run for a new term if suspended – said Friday he changed his mind because resigning would have prolonged the political turmoil since elections could not be organized for several months.

The parliament vote Thursday paved the way for a referendum to impeach Basescu to be held on or before May 20. Senate Chairman Nicolae Vacaroiu took over as interim president Friday.