On September 30, the Veza Public Analytics Center held a discussion between its head Valerii Klochok and Evhen Magda, director of the Institute of World Policy, regarding the results of Moldova’s parliamentary elections.
Evhen Magda emphasized that analysts did not predict that the PAS party would retain its majority. He noted that in post-Soviet countries, it is rare for competitive elections to result in such a government victory, with exceptions like Russia and Georgia. The Moldovan authorities managed to minimize the influence of opposition leader Ilan Shor, known for corruption scandals and ties to Russia, as well as attempts to destabilize Maia Sandu’s position. The extradition of Vlad Plahotniuc just two days before the election was also highlighted as significant.
Magda pointed out that PAS had virtually no pro-European allies, took a big gamble, and won, but will now be under close scrutiny from opponents and society. Many voters chose PAS as the “lesser evil.” Despite the victory, the government faces ongoing economic and political challenges, as Moldova remains one of Europe's poorest countries.
It was noted that Maia Sandu's policies are expected to remain largely unchanged. An intrigue persists around the possible participation of Ion Ceban, the mayor of Chisinau, in upcoming presidential elections, despite Romania declaring him persona non grata. The issue of Russian influence remains important, even though Sandu managed to partially contain it.
Experts believe that Moldova's political future will depend on the government's capacity to implement reforms, address corruption, and sustain its path toward European integration amid domestic and external pressures.
