On the evening of Sunday, 23 February 1997,
Ion Cioaba died from a heart attack while in Bucharest. The Associations
of Rroma* in Romania express their heartfelt sorrow over the premature
departure of one of the most recognized leaders of Rroma, ION CIOABA,
known as "King Cioaba".
To his name we may associate the beginning of the
Rroma movement in Romania and the world, where his militantism has been
recognized in both national and international fora. With his departure,
the Rroma movement loses an irreplaceable measure of support.
May his departure from us be a symbol of Rroma
union, as he has always wished.
We share our deepest sympathy with his family.
May God be with him.
* Ethnic Federation of Rroma, United Associations of Rroma, "Aven
Amentza" Foundation and Rromani CRISS