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Moldova Votes for EU Membership Amid Allegations of Election Fraud

Photo : Reuters

Moldova has narrowly voted in favor of joining the European Union (EU) in a referendum marred by allegations of Russian interference amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. According to electoral authorities, the “yes” vote received 50.39%, while the “no” camp stood at 49.61%, with nearly all votes counted by Monday. The results indicate a deeply divided nation as it grapples with its foreign relations.

As the results unfolded, an EU spokesperson highlighted the referendum's backdrop of “unprecedented interference” by Russia and its proxies. This interference allegedly manifested as intimidation tactics aimed at swaying public opinion against EU membership. The spokesperson stated that Moldova faced a significant assault on its democracy in the lead-up to the vote.

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The referendum took place alongside the presidential election, where incumbent President Maia Sandu is seeking re-election. Sandu has previously characterized the situation in Moldova as an “unprecedented assault on our country’s freedom and democracy.” Initial reports indicated that between 55% and 57% of voters were hesitant about committing to EU membership before the ballots from the pro-EU diaspora were counted later in the process, which ultimately helped boost the “yes” campaign.

The results of the referendum are significant for Sandu, who advocates for closer ties with Europe. With about 97.7% of the votes counted in the presidential election, Sandu held 41.91% of the votes, while her main opponent, former Prosecutor General Alexandr Stoianoglo, garnered 26.32%. Since no candidate achieved the required 50% majority, a run-off election is set for November 3. Stoianoglo has pledged to create a balanced foreign policy if elected, maintaining relations with the EU, the United States, Russia, and China.

In a statement to Moldovans, Sandu expressed concerns over alleged criminal activities aimed at undermining the election process. She claimed there was “clear evidence” of attempts by foreign entities to buy votes, specifically targeting 300,000 ballots, which she labeled “fraud of unprecedented scale.”

The lead-up to the referendum was overshadowed by accusations against fugitive tycoon Ilan Shor, currently residing in Russia, who has been implicated in attempts to manipulate the vote. Although Moscow has denied any involvement, Shor faces serious charges of fraud and theft back in Moldova. Moldovan authorities reported that Shor allegedly tried to bribe voters to support the “no” campaign. He has been vocal on social media, asserting that paying Moldovans for their votes is a legitimate practice and claiming to have organized a network to sway public opinion.

In the early hours following the vote, Shor proclaimed that Moldovans had rejected the referendum, addressing Sandu directly and stating, “Today I congratulate you; you lost the battle.”

Leading up to the vote, Moldovan authorities took measures against misinformation campaigns, dismantling online platforms believed to be spreading disinformation and uncovering alleged plans in Russia to incite unrest in Moldova. Additionally, criminal investigations have been opened against associates of Shor.

The results of both the referendum and the presidential election will play a crucial role in determining Moldova’s future direction amid the tensions between its pro-European aspirations and its historical ties to Russia.

Oct. 21, 2024 5:55 p.m. 411

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