The mayor of a city in central Romania has defeated the country’s prime minister in a presidential runoff election.

Klaus Iohannis won about 54 percent of Sunday’s vote, a surprising change from the first round of balloting in which he trailed Prime Minister Victor Ponta by 10 percent.

Ponta conceded late Sunday, saying “the people are always right” and pledging to fulfill his duties as long as he holds a public position.

President-elect Iohannis has pledged to address corruption and protect the independence of the justice system.

He will replace President Traian Basescu, who is stepping down after 10 years in office.
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