Polls have officially closed in Moldova following a pivotal presidential election and a referendum aiming to embed the goal of EU membership into the nation’s constitution. Current reports indicate that the ‘No’ vote is leading with 56% based on more than half of the votes counted, as per Moldova’s electoral commission.
This ‘No’ outcome could defy expectations, with previous surveys suggesting that around 63% anticipated a ‘Yes’ majority. In the presidential race, preliminary results indicate that incumbent pro-EU president Maia Sandu has obtained more than 50% of the counted votes. However, she appears unlikely to exceed the threshold needed for an outright victory, setting the stage for a runoff against her closest competitor, Aleksandr Stoianoglo of the pro-Russian Party of Socialists, slated for November 3. Stoianoglo’s support has notably surged, reportedly reaching around 30%, exceeding early forecasts.
Voter turnout exceeded 51% when polls closed at 21:00 local time, validating the referendum. Culture Minister assurances from Sandu’s camp suggest optimism about her potential to win in the first round, despite Stoianoglo’s steady support.
After casting her ballot in Chisinau earlier, Sandu emphasized the referendum’s importance for Moldovan sovereignty, cautioning against external influences that could sway voter decisions. Allegations of vote-buying, purportedly linked to Russian interests, surfaced, though these claims have been firmly denied by Russian officials.
While some presidential contenders announced intentions to boycott the referendum, Stoianoglo expressed his reservations about altering the constitution, despite advocating for Moldova’s European aspirations. Many young voters articulated their desire for a European future, emphasizing economic prospects and a break from historical ties to Moscow.
Concerns over electoral integrity emerged from polling stations in the Russian-backed region of Transnistria, where instances of vote-buying were reported. Witnesses observed individuals openly discussing compensation for their votes.
The context intensifies with recent actions from Ilan Shor, a fugitive businessman accused of financial manipulation in Moldova, who reportedly incentivized voters to oppose the EU referendum and urged support for any candidate other than Sandu in the presidential election.
