Chișinău (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Moldova’s crucial elections are underway, with voters choosing EU membership amid suspicions of Russian meddling.
Moldovans cast their votes on 20 Oct 2024 in a presidential election and EU referendum at a pivotal juncture that could maintain the small agricultural economy’s drive to join the European Union, after allegations of Russian election interference. As the fighting in Ukraine rages to the east and turns the political and diplomatic limelight on the former Soviet republic, it has accelerated its impulse to escape Moscow’s orbit and ventured into the long process of EU accession discussions.
Who is the main candidate in Moldova’s presidential election?
According to Sources, polls indicate pro-Western incumbent Maia Sandu has a comfy lead over her 10 rivals on the ballot, though the run will go to a Nov. 3 run-off if she fails to achieve the 50% threshold to win outright. Polls indicate she is likely to face Alexandr Stoianoglo, an ex-prosecutor-general supported by the traditionally pro-Russian Party of Socialists if the vote goes to a second round.
Sandu expects to see a resounding “yes” at the referendum, which will determine whether to insert a clause into the constitution determining EU accession as a goal.
“Our fate is decided on Sunday. Everyone’s vote matters, no matter where we are,”
she said.
How does voter turnout affect the validity of Moldova’s EU referendum?
Polls demonstrate a majority support joining the 27-nation bloc, though five of the candidates have told their proponents to vote “No” or boycott, saying the timing of the referendum is a scheme to boost Sandu’s haul at the election. The referendum requires a turnout of at least a third of the people detailed on electoral rolls for it to be deemed valid, even though the indexes have not been revised in years despite many people emigrating.
Polling stations, which unlocked at 7 a.m. (0500 GMT), shut at 9 p.m. (1800 GMT). The Central Election Commission is anticipated to issue early, preliminary results at a first news conference at 10 p.m. (1900 GMT).
How could the election results shape Moldova’s political future?
A feeble outcome for Sandu would establish the tone for next summer’s parliamentary elections, where political analysts express that her PAS party will face a challenge to maintain its majority.
Flanked by Romania and Ukraine, the country of under 3 million people has rotated between pro-Western and pro-Russian practices since the 1991 Soviet breakup. Relations with Moscow have declined since Sandu came to power in December 2020. Her government has criticised Russia’s February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, blamed Russia for plotting her overthrow and diversified energy supply after Russia decreased gas supplies.
