Moldova's presidential elections: Expert weighs in on Sandu's chances in runoff
Photo: Maya Sandu (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
A few days before the second round of Moldova's presidential elections, uncertainty still prevails. It is too early to speak of Maia Sandu's victory.
This was stated by Angela Gramada, president of the Association of Experts on Security and International Relations (ESGA, Romania), in a comment to the RBC-Ukraine YouTube channel.
The expert expressed hope for the victory of the pro-European candidate in the presidential race.
She noted that parliamentary elections will take place in Moldova next year, which will involve a significant battle. As Gramada explained, Moldova is a parliamentary republic, and the head of state is the prime minister. Therefore, the struggle for parliament is crucial, as those who win will form a coalition.
According to the expert, the party supported by Maia Sandu is currently experiencing a slight decline due to scandals and reforms. In her view, the electoral race will be challenging for both Maia Sandu and her opponent, Alexander Stoianoglo.
"For Sandu, she has taken on the entire burden of the referendum and the reforms that were not completed. She accepted all the responsibility, and I see a trend where there is a group of people who are not voting for Stoianoglo but will vote against Sandu simply because the reforms were not finished," said Angela Gramada.
The expert added that there are currently insufficient indicators to claim that the battle has already been won by Maia Sandu.
Gramada noted that the diaspora showed good turnout in the first round, with people abroad voting for Sandu. However, there are concerns that people came for the first round of elections due to the referendum, and they may not be able to return for the second round.
Elections in Moldova
The first round of the presidential elections in Moldova took place on October 20. Citizens of Moldova voted not only for the president but also participated in a referendum aimed at determining the country's future direction.
As a result of the voting, incumbent president Maia Sandu won, receiving 42.45% of the votes.
Her main opponent, Alexander Stoianoglo, backed by the pro-Russian Party of Socialists, garnered 25.98% and has advanced to the second round, which will take place on Sunday, November 3.
It is worth noting that Moldova has accused Russia of interfering in the elections. Chisinau has stated that the RF spent €100 million to disrupt the elections and referendum.
