Chișinău (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The EU Parliament election observation delegation applauded Moldovan authorities for conducting a well-managed election despite unprecedented Russian meddling.
In a press conference on Monday 21 October, MEP Michael Gahler, Head of the European Parliament election observation delegation, on the EU referendum and presidential election remarked on behalf of the European Parliament election observation delegation. He thanked the authorities for inviting the representatives of the European Union citizens to monitor the crucial elections.
How did the EU Parliament delegation evaluate Moldova’s vote?
German MEP said that their delegation observed the vote and the counting in several cities, including Chisinau, Anenii-Noi, Balti, and Orhei. He mentioned that they met many attentive and dedicated staff, most of whom were women, working in the polling stations, even in rural areas. He also noted that the EU Parliament delegation was positively impressed by the quality of the electoral procedures, which allowed the Moldovan population to go to the polls in an orderly and peaceful manner.
“We welcome the results of the referendum,”
said Michael Gahler.
“Despite the unprecedented massive, malign and illicit Russian interference, especially through vote buying, hybrid attacks and disinformation, the people of the Republic of Moldova chose a future in the EU. We commend the competent Moldovan authorities for holding a well-managed and efficient election under these extraordinary circumstances. We call on all stakeholders to resist any interference, in order not to allow it to distort the results of the second round of the presidential election and the 2025 parliamentary elections.”
How did Russian interference impact Moldova’s elections?
Michael Gahler condemned the malicious activities, meddling and hybrid operations by the Russian Federation, pro-Russian oligarchs and Russian-sponsored local entities. According to him, Russian malign interference was unprecedented in scale and amplified as election day approached.
Gahler contended that the Russian objective is to undermine the electoral process, security, sovereignty, and democratic foundations of the Republic of Moldova, as well as the free will of its citizens. He stated that it enables divisions within Moldovan society intending to derail the country’s European trajectory.
