Turnout and the Electoral Landscape
Moldova has completed its parliamentary elections, with polling stations closing across the country. The Central Election Commission reported a turnout of about 52%, estimating that roughly 1.6 million citizens participated in the vote. Deputies are elected for four-year terms, and the Parliament comprises 101 seats. The election rules set thresholds of 2% for independent candidates, 5% for parties, and 7% for electoral blocs.
The Contenders: PAS vs. The Patriotic Bloc
The main contest pitted the governing Action and Solidarity party (PAS), led by President Maia Sandu, against the unified opposition represented by the Patriotic Bloc. In total, 14 parties, four electoral blocs, and four independent candidates competed for seats in the 101-member parliament, which operates on a four-year cycle. Even before polling day, Moldova’s authorities had moved to bar several parties and restricted media broadcasting, including some Russian outlets, citing security and propaganda concerns.
Allegations of Interference and Election Day Violations
Election day was marred by reports of irregularities. Police reported more than 200 violations during voting, including campaigning on election day and breaches of vote secrecy. Observers, however, claimed the tally of violations exceeded 600, according to the Russian state news agency RIA Novosti, highlighting a contested picture of the day’s integrity.
Access to the Ballot Box: Domestic and Diaspora Voting
Authorities emphasized broad access to ballots within Moldova: more than 2,000 polling stations were deployed nationwide. Abroad, 301 voting points were opened to accommodate Moldovan citizens living overseas. Notably, in Russia there were only two polling stations, while Transnistria had 12 points, underscoring the uneven geographic spread of ballots for a country with a sizeable diaspora and a region with an unresolved status.
Transnistria: Border Tensions and Allegations
The unrecognized region of Transnistria accused Chisinau of obstructing local residents from voting. The Transnistrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said border checkpoints on the Dniester were fortified with artificial traffic jams, physical barriers, and extensive vehicle checks. Movement across bridges such as Rybnitsa–Rezina and Kamenka–Senatovka was restricted, preventing many residents from casting ballots. Reports also described a number of “telephone bomb threats” at polling stations, leading to closures and, in some cases, shortages of ballots. Moldova’s supporters and opponents alike framed these events as part of a broader political strategy affecting the region’s participation in the election process.
What This Could Mean Going Forward
With 14 parties, four blocs, and several independents in the race, Moldova faces a potentially complex post-election scenario as parties negotiate coalitions and government formation. The combination of turnout dynamics, regional tensions, and reported irregularities will likely shape debates about electoral reform, media freedom, and regional security in the weeks after polling closes.
