Moldova’s President Maia Sandu beams with joy, clutching a vibrant bouquet of flowers as she jubilantly celebrates alongside her dedicated supporters the preliminary outcomes of the presidential election runoff, held in the heart of Chisinau, Moldova, on Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024.

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CHISINAU, Moldova — In a significant political victory, Moldova’s pro-Western President Maia Sandu has secured a second term in a crucial presidential runoff, triumphing over a rival affiliated with the Moscow-friendly political faction, amidst serious allegations of Russian meddling, voter manipulation, and acts of intimidation in this aspiring European Union member state.

With nearly 99% of the ballots tallied in this decisive second round conducted on Sunday, Sandu garnered an impressive 55% of the popular vote, as reported by the Central Electoral Commission (CEC), surpassing Alexandr Stoianoglo, a former prosecutor general supported by the pro-Russia Party of Socialists, who received 45%.

This result is celebrated as a vital affirmation for the pro-Western government that rallied strongly behind Sandu’s candidacy, reinforcing her agenda aimed at fostering closer ties with the West in pursuit of EU integration for Moldova.

“Moldova, you are victorious! Today, dear Moldovans, you have provided a lesson in democracy that deserves to be inscribed in the annals of history. Today, you have safeguarded Moldova!” Sandu proclaimed triumphantly shortly after the clock struck midnight following her victory announcement.

Furthermore, she asserted that the electoral process faced an “unprecedented attack” characterized by numerous alleged corrupt practices, including illicit financial influences, vote-buying, and foreign electoral manipulation orchestrated by “hostile external forces” and organized crime.

“You have demonstrated that the will of the people cannot be obstructed when they choose to express themselves through their vote,” Sandu added, reinforcing the significance of civic engagement.

Before the final vote count was revealed, Stoianoglo emphasized to the press that “everyone’s voice deserves respect” and expressed hope that “from this moment onward, we will move towards unity, putting an end to the hatred and division forced upon us.” It remains unclear whether he has publicly addressed his electoral loss.

As polling concluded locally at 9 p.m. (1900 GMT), voter turnout recorded over 1.68 million participants, translating to approximately 54% of eligible voters, according to the CEC. The participation of Moldova’s extensive diaspora was noteworthy, with a record number of more than 325,000 ballots cast, predominantly in support of Sandu during the runoff.

In the initial round held on October 20, Sandu secured 42% of the votes but fell short of achieving a majority against Stoianoglo, who placed second. The presidential position holds substantial authority, particularly in matters of foreign relations and national security, and features a term of four years.

European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen extended her congratulations to Sandu following her victory, commending her resilient strength in navigating the challenges encountered during this contentious election.

The influence of Moldova’s diaspora was underscored in the October 20 referendum, when a narrow majority of 50.35% expressed support for solidifying Moldova’s aspirations for EU membership. However, the recent electoral processes were marred by serious allegations of extensive vote-buying schemes and incidents of voter intimidation.

The outcomes from both elections have unveiled significant concerns regarding Moldova’s judiciary, highlighting its apparent inability to safeguard the electoral process effectively.

On Sunday, Moldovan police announced they had “reasonable evidence” indicating the organized transportation of voters — an illegal activity under Moldova’s electoral legislation — from various regions including overseas destinations. They are investigating potential air travel activities linked to Russia, Belarus, Azerbaijan, and Turkey to address these serious infractions.

“These actions are taken to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that every voter can cast their ballot freely and without undue influence,” stated the police.

On the same afternoon, Moldova’s foreign ministry reported that polling stations in Frankfurt, Germany, along with locations in Liverpool and Northampton in the U.K., had been subjected to false bomb threats, acts designed solely to disrupt the voting procedure.

Stanislav Secrieru, the president’s national security adviser, indicated on X that there are visible signs of considerable interference by Russia in the electoral process, which posed a “high potential to distort the outcome” of the election.

He further noted that national voter registration systems are under assault from “ongoing coordinated cyberattacks” aimed at disrupting the connection between local polling stations and those abroad, stating that cybersecurity teams are actively countering these threats to maintain operational integrity.

Moldova’s Prime Minister Dorin Recean detailed that individuals across the country had received “anonymous death threats via phone calls” in what he termed “an extreme attack” intended to intimidate voters within this former Soviet republic, which is home to approximately 2.5 million citizens.

After casting her vote in Chisinau, Sandu spoke to the media, emphasizing, “Thieves are attempting to buy our votes and our nation, yet the power of the people is far greater.”

In Romania’s capital, Bucharest, 20-year-old medical student Silviana Zestrea articulated her belief that the runoff represents a “definitive step” toward shaping the future of Moldova.

“It is crucial for the electorate to recognize that we must select a candidate who genuinely meets our expectations,” she remarked. “Even though we currently reside abroad, none of us genuinely wanted to leave.”

Moldovan law enforcement has brought to light a conspiracy reportedly initiated by Ilan Shor, an exiled oligarch residing in Russia, who was convicted in absentia last year for crimes of fraud and money laundering. Shor continues to deny any allegations of misconduct.

Authorities allege that a staggering $39 million was disbursed to over 130,000 voters through an internationally sanctioned Russian bank between September and October. Initiatives undertaken by anti-corruption agencies have led to hundreds of search operations and the confiscation of upwards of $2.7 million (2.5 million euros) in cash as they intensify efforts to dismantle corruption.

In one notable case in Gagauzia, an autonomous region of Moldova where only 5% of residents favored EU membership, a medical professional was apprehended for allegedly coercing 25 elderly individuals living in a care facility to vote contrary to their wishes. Police claimed to possess “conclusive evidence,” which included financial transactions traced back to the same Russian banking entity.

On Saturday, during a service at a church in Comrat, the administrative center of Gagauzia, Father Vasilii conveyed to The Associated Press that he had urged attendees to fulfill their civic duty by voting, abstaining from naming any candidates.

“As citizens, we benefit from the country’s resources — electricity, gas,” he explained. “Regardless of our opinions about governmental actions, it remains our responsibility to participate in the electoral process. … The church consistently prays for peace.”

On Thursday, a raid was conducted at a political party headquarters and authorities announced that 12 individuals are suspected of engaging in voter bribery schemes to influence selections in the presidential contest. Additionally, a criminal investigation was launched regarding 40 state agency employees believed to be involved in electoral bribery activities.

Moldova’s aspirations for EU membership hang in the balance as it navigates the complexities of its political landscape. Cristian Cantir, an associate professor of international relations at Oakland University, remarked that the outcome of the second round is unlikely to alleviate rising geopolitical tensions. “On the contrary, I anticipate that geopolitical divisions will intensify leading up to the 2025 legislative elections,” he added.

The law enforcement sector in Moldova requires increased resources and enhanced training to address voter fraud effectively, creating an environment where those enticed to buy or sell votes are assured of swift repercussions.

Savlina Adasan, a 21-year-old economics student residing in Bucharest, shared her support for Sandu, highlighting worries regarding corruption and a lack of voter enlightenment concerning the two candidates.

“We are striving for a European future for our nation,” she stated, citing the abundant opportunities and potential development that EU alignment could offer. “If the opposing candidate secures victory, it would signify a significant regression for our country.”

Since 2021, a pro-Western administration has governed in Moldova, with parliamentary elections scheduled for 2025. Observers of Moldovan politics caution that next year’s elections could emerge as a primary focus for Moscow’s strategic interests.

In the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Moldova took significant steps by applying for EU membership, subsequently earning candidate status in June of the same year. As of summer 2024, Brussels commenced discussions regarding membership negotiations, which has irked the Kremlin and deeply strained relations with Chisinau.

**Interview with Political Analyst Dr. Elena Nistor ⁣on Moldova’s Presidential Run-Off Results**

**Interviewer:** Good evening, ‌Dr. ⁤Nistor. Thank you for joining us to discuss the recent​ presidential run-off⁤ in Moldova. Maia Sandu ‌has managed⁣ to ‌secure a second term, defeating her rival Alexandr Stoianoglo with 55% of the votes. What are your initial thoughts on this outcome?

**Dr. ⁣Nistor:** Good evening!‍ It’s⁣ a pleasure to be here. I believe Sandu’s victory is a significant affirmation of ⁤Moldova’s ⁤pro-European stance. ‌The election highlighted⁢ public support⁤ for her agenda of strengthening ties ⁣with the⁤ EU‌ amidst ​heightened challenges posed by Russia. This outcome ⁤not only reflects a desire for democratic stability but also a rejection of corruption and external influence.

**Interviewer:** There were serious allegations of electoral‍ meddling from Russia⁤ during the campaign. How do you think these allegations impacted voter‍ behavior and turnout?

**Dr. Nistor:** Absolutely, the allegations of Russian interference‍ were⁢ a critical‍ backdrop to this election. Reports of vote-buying and intimidation were alarming and likely motivated many voters to turn ‍out ⁣to express ‌their choice firmly. The high participation⁢ rate,​ especially among Moldovan expatriates ​who overwhelmingly supported Sandu, underscores a strong desire ⁢for change ⁤and a‍ collective ⁤response ​to the threats against democratic​ processes.

**Interviewer:** Sandu⁣ mentioned facing⁣ an ⁣“unprecedented attack” during the electoral process. How do ⁤you see her addressing the alleged corrupt practices moving forward?

**Dr. Nistor:** Sandu will need to prioritize combatting corruption if she hopes ​to maintain public trust. This could involve robust investigations into ‌the allegations made⁣ during the election and taking steps to‍ strengthen the independence of⁤ Moldova’s judiciary. Her administration will also need to focus on reforms that enhance transparency and ⁤accountability in governance to deter future​ electoral‍ fraud.

**Interviewer:** Given the close nature of the​ election results, do you anticipate⁢ any significant ⁣challenges from Stoianoglo and the pro-Russian factions moving forward?

**Dr. Nistor:** It’s likely that Stoianoglo will⁢ continue to garner support from⁣ the pro-Russian base, which may create challenges for ⁤Sandu’s government. The divisions‍ within the electorate could manifest in⁤ political instability if not addressed carefully. Sandu will need to work on​ unification efforts to reconcile differing views and prevent further polarization within Moldovan society.

**Interviewer:** ‍what does Sandu’s victory mean for Moldova’s path towards EU integration?

**Dr. Nistor:** Sandu’s ‌victory is​ a positive signal for ‍Moldova’s EU aspirations. Her administration will​ likely ⁢accelerate the reforms necessary to ⁣align with EU⁣ standards, focusing on anti-corruption measures and strengthening democratic institutions. If she successfully navigates the challenges ahead, Moldova could be on a more ​defined‌ path towards EU membership—a goal that many Moldovans are eager to achieve.

**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Nistor, ‌for your insight on this crucial moment in Moldova’s political landscape. ⁤

**Dr. Nistor:** Thank you for having ‍me. It’s an exciting time⁢ for Moldova, and I look‌ forward to‍ seeing how⁣ these developments unfold.