Chisinau – Moldova’s pro-European Union ruling party, Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), secured a definitive victory and a new majority in a crucial parliamentary election held on Sunday, pivotal for the country’s aspirations to join the EU, reports 24brussels.
The election was marred by widespread allegations of Russian interference in the former Soviet republic. These elections are deemed crucial for Moldova’s ongoing efforts to integrate into the European Union, initiatives that gained momentum following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
How did the parties perform in the results?
With nearly all polling station data reported, initial results show that the pro-EU PAS garnered 50.1% of the vote, while the pro-Russian Patriotic Electoral Bloc received 24.2%. The Russia-friendly Alternativa Bloc finished in third place, followed closely by the populist Our Party, while the right-wing Democracy at Home party also achieved sufficient votes to secure a seat in parliament.
These electoral results indicate that PAS is anticipated to attain a significant majority, potentially winning around 55 of the 101 seats in the legislature. Any proposed government will require parliamentary approval.
What messages did EU leaders send after the election win?
European Council President António Costa congratulated the Moldovan electorate, stating:
“The people of Moldova have spoken and their message is loud and clear. They chose democracy, reform, and a European future in the face of pressure and interference from Russia. The EU stands with Moldova. Every step of the way.”
Additionally, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her congratulations to the Moldovan citizens, asserting:
“No attempt to sow fear or division could break your resolve.”
“You made your choice clear: Europe. Democracy. Freedom. Our door is open. And we will stand with you every step of the way. The future is yours,”
How did Russia allegedly try to influence voting?
Moldovan voters encountered numerous accusations of electoral irregularities, reflecting the high tension surrounding the elections. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed that polling stations in Romania, Spain, Italy, and the United States received bomb threats during the voting process.
President Maia Sandu’s administration warned that Russia attempted to manipulate the election through extensive disinformation campaigns and vote-buying strategies. Reports indicated that the electoral infrastructure and government websites were subject to cyber attacks, while fake bomb threats occurred at polling stations both within Moldova and abroad.
Furthermore, police apprehended three individuals with alleged ties to security services in Moldova’s pro-Russian breakaway region of Transnistria, accused of orchestrating plans to instigate “mass destabilizations and disorder.”
