Moldovans are currently engaged in the second round of a pivotal presidential election that holds significant implications for the country's future trajectory. The outcome of this election could determine whether Moldova continues its path towards closer ties with Europe or shifts back towards aligning with the Kremlin.
Incumbent president Maia Sandu, known for her pro-Western stance, is seeking re-election after steering Moldova towards the European Union amidst Russia's conflict in Ukraine. Sandu secured 42% of the vote in the initial round, which coincided with a referendum on EU membership that narrowly passed. Both elections were tainted by a substantial vote-buying scheme linked to the Kremlin, which Sandu condemned as a severe threat to Moldova's democratic process.
Her opponent in the second round is Alexandr Stoianoglo, a former prosecutor general representing the pro-Russian Party of Socialists. With potential backing from other Kremlin-friendly parties, the final round is anticipated to be closely contested.
In a recent presidential debate, Sandu criticized Stoianoglo as a 'Trojan Horse' working on behalf of the Kremlin to infiltrate Moldova's capital, Chisinau. Analysts suggest that the election is a critical juncture in determining whether the president will be elected by citizens or through external interference.
Prior to the elections, reports surfaced of a Russian-backed oligarch attempting to influence the outcome by offering incentives to voters. Despite initial polling figures, Stoianoglo garnered over 26% of the first-round votes, raising concerns about potential interference in the upcoming election.
The first round also highlighted genuine opposition to Sandu, who faced criticism for economic challenges during her tenure, including a spike in inflation and poverty rates. Additionally, her decision to hold the EU referendum concurrently with the presidential election faced backlash, with some viewing it as a strategic move to bolster her support.
Stoianoglo's campaign strategy involves balancing relations with both Moscow and the EU, presenting a mix of conflicting policies. Moldovan officials are bracing for potential interference in the second round, with fears that a victory for a Russia-friendly candidate could jeopardize Moldova's European aspirations and escalate tensions in regions like Transnistria.
The election in Moldova follows Georgia's recent political developments, where Russia's influence has been a growing concern. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed apprehensions about Russia's expanding influence in the region, underscoring the significance of Moldova's upcoming election in shaping geopolitical dynamics.
