Overview of Moldova’s parliamentary vote
Parliamentary elections in Moldova have concluded as polling stations closed and preliminary results began to circulate. The Central Electoral Commission reported a turnout around 52%, with roughly 1.6 million citizens participating in the four-year mandate that will fill Moldova’s 101-seat parliament. The electoral rules set distinct thresholds: independent candidates must clear 2%, parties 5%, and blocs 7% to win seats. These thresholds shape how parties, blocs, and independents navigate the race.
Turnout, thresholds and the composition of the Parliament
The vote determines the parliament for the next four years. The relatively modest turnout figure reflects a competitive but uneven turnout across regions and diaspora communities. Thresholds play a critical role in whether smaller groups can enter parliament, with independents needing to surpass 2% and larger formations—parties at 5% and blocs at 7%—to gain representation. With 101 seats up for grabs, the election landscape often favors broad coalitions or alliances that can cross these thresholds, even as dozens of parties and blocs entered the race.
Key contenders and the political landscape
The main contest pitted the ruling party, Action and Solidarity (PAS), led by President Maia Sandu, against the united opposition known as the Patriotic Bloc. In total, 14 parties, four blocs, and four independent candidates competed for seats. Even before the votes were cast, authorities moved to block several political actors from participating and restricted broadcasts on several media outlets, including some broadcasting entities from abroad, prompting debates about the fairness of the electoral environment.
Voting logistics: where ballots were cast
Electoral organizers set up a large network of polling stations, with more than 2,000 locations within Moldova, plus 301 abroad. Diaspora participation has long been a feature of Moldova’s elections. In Russia, home to a sizable Moldovan community, there were only two polling points, while Transnistria hosted 12. These numbers illustrate ongoing logistical and geopolitical complexities that affect where and how Moldovan citizens vote.
Allegations, irregularities, and the political climate
Law enforcement reported over 200 violations on election day, including campaigning at polls and breaches of voting secrecy. Observers, however, suggested that the count of irregularities could be significantly higher, with some estimates exceeding 600. The striking rise in reported irregularities underscored a tense political atmosphere and intense scrutiny of the electoral process. Opposition groups argued that authorities pressured parties and restricted access to media, while government supporters pointed to routine compliance with election laws and procedural safeguards.
Transnistria and diaspora voting: tensions and claims
In the semi‑recognized region of Transnistria, authorities accused Chisinau of obstructing residents’ participation. They reported artificial traffic holds on border bridges, physical barriers, and mass checks at checkpoints, with several bridges between Ribnitsa–Rezina and Kaminka–Senatovka blocked, hindering some voters. Transnistria also reported instances of “telephone mining” at polling stations, causing closures, and ballot shortages at some sites. Moldova’s government criticized these claims as misinformation, while Transnistria framed them as evidence of targeted pressure on their residents. The incident highlights the enduring fault lines in Moldova’s political geography and the challenge of ensuring universal participation across all regions.
What happens next
With the preliminary tallies in, all parties and blocs will monitor results to determine whether a clear majority emerges or if post-election coalitions become necessary. Given the 5%/7% thresholds for parties and blocs, many smaller formations may struggle to gain seats, elevating the importance of cross-aisle cooperation for stable governance. The coming days will involve formal vote-counting, verification processes, and potential coalition negotiations as Moldova’s citizens await a more precise composition of the new parliament and the policy directions it will pursue.
