Moldova’s Pro-EU Party Leads Election Amid Russian Interference Claims

Moldova’s ruling pro-European party, the Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), emerged as a frontrunner in a crucial parliamentary election held on March 5, 2023. Early results indicated that PAS received approximately 42 percent of the votes, significantly ahead of the pro-Russian opposition, which garnered around 30 percent. This election is pivotal for Moldova’s aspirations to join the European Union, as it navigates a complex geopolitical landscape influenced by both Western and Russian interests.

The election atmosphere was tense, marked by mutual accusations of interference. President Maia Sandu characterized this moment as existential for Moldova, a small Eastern European country that has historically oscillated between European and Russian spheres of influence. The ruling party is striving to maintain its parliamentary majority in the face of challenges posed by the Russian-leaning Patriotic Bloc, which seeks to shift Moldova away from closer ties with Brussels.

Election Integrity Concerns

Government officials raised alarms regarding potential disruptions to the electoral process. They reported attempts at cyber attacks targeting election infrastructure, as well as numerous fake bomb threats at polling stations both within Moldova and among its extensive diaspora. These incidents raised questions about the integrity of the voting process.

Moldova’s substantial diaspora, often supportive of European integration, could play a critical role in determining the election outcome. Authorities began counting votes after polling stations closed at 21:00 local time (18:00 GMT). Retaining a majority in the 101-seat chamber would enable PAS to continue pursuing its goal of EU membership by 2030, potentially breaking free from Russian influence.

In the event that PAS does not secure enough votes to maintain its majority, it will be necessary to form a coalition with smaller parties. This could complicate their agenda and delay Moldova’s progress toward integration with the European Union.

As the counting continues and final results are awaited, the election outcome may have lasting implications for Moldova’s political landscape and its ongoing quest for alignment with Europe.