LIVE TEXT // Presidential election results: Maia Sandu lead and EU Referendum controversy
In the preliminary results of the 2024 presidential elections in Moldova, Maia Sandu is leading with approximately 41.86% of the votes, followed by Alexandr Stoianoglo at 26.32%, and Renato Usatîi at 13.78%. With a voter turnout of 51.4%, this initial count suggests a possible second round of voting if no candidate secures a majority.
In conjunction with the presidential elections, a referendum concerning constitutional amendments for EU accession revealed a divided electorate, with 50.1% opposing the changes and 49.9% supporting them. These results highlight a contentious political climate, marked by significant voter participation but also allegations of electoral fraud and manipulation. Sandu has expressed her commitment to uphold democracy amid these challenges, while other candidates have called for accountability regarding the electoral process. Overall, the unfolding results indicate a crucial moment for Moldova's political landscape, emphasizing the need for further engagement and scrutiny in both the electoral outcomes and the referendum's implications.
Moldova's elections: Sandu leads as CEC verifies results
The Central Electoral Commission (CEC) has processed all the minutes from the presidential elections and the constitutional referendum.
Regarding the amendment of the Constitution for accession to the European Union, 50.46 percent of voters expressed support, while 49.54 percent voted against the proposal.
In the presidential elections, Maia Sandu garnered 42.45 percent of the votes, whereas Alexandr Stoianoglo received 25.98 percent. Following them are Renato Usatîi (13.79 percent), Irina Vlah (5.38 percent), Victoria Furtună (4.45 percent), Vasile Tarlev (3.19 percent), Ion Chicu (2.06 percent), Octavian Țîcu (0.93 percent), Andrei Năstase (0.64 percent), Natalia Morari (0.61 percent), and Tudor Ulianovschi (0.52 percent).
In the second round of the presidential elections, which is most likely to take place on November 3 of this year, Maia Sandu and Alexandr Stoianoglo will face each other.
Second round of presidential elections set after CEC report
According to preliminary data provided by the Central Election Commission (CEC), after processing 98.56% of the reports, 50.16% of voters who participated in the constitutional referendum answered "YES," while 49.84% voted "NO."
Additionally, the CEC determined that none of the presidential candidates received enough votes to be elected outright. As a result, a second round of presidential elections will be held within two weeks, featuring the two candidates who garnered the most votes: Maia Sandu and Alexandr Stoianoglo.
CEC President Angelica Caraman stated that the Commission will present a report to the Constitutional Court (CC) on the conduct of the elections, which will cover preparations, election-day proceedings, reported incidents, and results. The Constitutional Court will confirm or invalidate the results of the referendum within 10 days. “We have addressed the reported incidents, including the photographing of ballots, their damage, removal from polling stations, illegal campaigning, organised voter transport, reasonable suspicion of voter bribery, and violations of voting rights. All of these reports and details will be thoroughly reflected in the CEC’s report, which will be submitted to the Constitutional Court,” Caraman said.
Regarding voter turnout, Caraman noted that the highest participation rate was recorded in Dondușeni, where 50.96% of registered voters cast their ballots. The lowest turnout was in Basarabeasca, where only 39% of eligible voters went to the polls.
In the municipality of Chișinău, 361,686 voters, or 54% of those registered, participated. In the polling stations opened for citizens from the left bank of the Dniester River, 16,000 voters turned out. Additionally, 240,000 voters cast their ballots at polling stations abroad.
After polling stations closed in countries where voting by mail was conducted, 1,844 envelopes were opened, including 438 from Canada, 705 from the United States, and 201 from Sweden.
Moldova referendum: 79 votes separate 'yes' and 'no'
After processing 2,181 minutes from the total of 2,219, the option "YES" received 79 more votes than "NO."
In the elections held on October 20 concerning the referendum, citizens responded with "YES" or "NO" to the question: "Do you support amending the Constitution to allow the Republic of Moldova to join the European Union?"
For the referendum to be validated, at least one-third of voters must participate in the plebiscite. To amend the Constitution, at least half of those present at the polls must vote in favour.
Presidential elections 2024: Sandu leads in early results
According to preliminary data after processing 2,166 of the 2,219 voting records, Maia Sandu has received 41.86% of the votes, while Alexandr Stoianoglo has garnered 26.32%. In third place is Renato Usatîi with 13.78%, followed by Irina Vlah in fourth place with 5.46%.
The Central Electoral Commission (CEC) reports that by 21:00, 1,546,757 voters had cast their ballots, representing 51.4% of the registered voters on the electoral lists.
It is important to note that if none of the candidates for the presidency of the Republic of Moldova receives at least half of the votes from those who participated in the elections, a second round of voting will be held, featuring the top two candidates from the first round who received the most votes.
Moldova’s referendum reveals divided voter support
Following the processing of 2,168 voting records out of 2,219, 49.9% of voters supported the amendment of the Constitution, while 50.1% opted for "NO."
In the elections held on October 20 concerning the referendum, citizens responded with "YES" or "NO" to the question: "Do you support amending the Constitution to allow the Republic of Moldova to join the European Union?"
To validate the referendum, at least one-third of voters must participate in the plebiscite. Furthermore, for the Constitution to be amended, at least half of those present at the polls must vote in favour.
01:05 Maia Sandu, statements after preliminary results were announced: "We will not give up defending freedom and democracy"
Acting President Maia Sandu made the first statements after the preliminary results of the presidential elections and the referendum on EU accession were announced.
"Moldova faced an unprecedented attack on freedom and democracy in our country. Criminal groups together with foreign forces hostile to our interests have attacked our country with tens of millions of euros, lies and propaganda with the most miserable means to bring our citizens and our country into an area of instability and uncertainty. We have information that the target of the criminal group was to buy 300,000 votes, the size of the fraud is unprecedented. The aim was to compromise a democratic exercise. Their goal is to induce fear and panic in society. We will not give up defending freedom and democracy. We are waiting for the final results", said Maia Sandu.
00:10 Maia Sandu and Alexandr Stoianoglo to compete in the second round
According to the preliminary data after the processing of 1841 minutes out of 2219, Maia Sandu scored about 37% of the votes, Alexandr Stoianoglo – 29%, followed by Renato Usatîi with 13.8% and Irina Vlah with 5.8%.
According to the CEC, by 9:00 p.m., 1,546,757 voters cast their votes, which represents 51.4% of the voters registered on the electoral lists.
We remind you that, if none of the candidates for the position of president of the Republic of Moldova scores at least half of the votes, the second round of voting is organized involving the first two candidates who scored the highest number of votes in the first round.
00:00 Referendum 2024// About 45% of citizens said "YES", while 55% voted "NO"
After processing more than half of the minutes regarding the results of the pro-EU constitutional referendum on which the citizens of the Republic of Moldova voted on Sunday, the "NO" answers prevail, show the preliminary results presented by the Central Electoral Commission.
After processing 1,761 minutes out of 2,219, the "YES" answers represent about 45%, while about 55% of Moldovans voted "NO". In the October 20 elections regarding the referendum, citizens answered "YES" or "NO" to the question: "Do you support the amendment of the Constitution with a view to the accession of the Republic of Moldova to the European Union?".
At least 1/3 of the voters’ turnout in the referendum is necessary to validate the referendum. The Constitution can be amended if at least half of those present at the polls vote in favor.
Irina Vlah thanks voters for "support and warmth"
Independent candidate Irina Vlah thanked the citizens for supporting her and voting for her in the October 20 election. In the context, Irina Vlah said that she is waiting for the election results.
"Thank you for your support and warmth. I felt them all day and today I once again convinced myself that we are a big Moldovan family."
Vasile Tarlev, the first message addressed to the voters after the closing of the polling stations: "Thank you!"
The independent candidate Vasile Tarlev thanked the citizens for participating in "a historic, necessary and important election", which "decides the fate of Moldova for at least four years".
The former prime minister claims that the referendum in which Moldovans voted today "was an error", or, he says, such an important referendum cannot be validated with 17 or 30%.
"If we want to be serious people, to be respected in the whole world, to be true democrats and members of the international community, obviously such referendum issues must be with massive voting participation."
Preliminary report by CEC: More than 1.5 million citizens voted by 21:00
Over one million 555 thousand citizens voted by 21:00 elections. In all, 51.54% of the voters cast their votes. According to the Central Electoral Commission, both the referendum and the presidential elections can be declared valid. According to the data presented by the president of the Central Electoral Commission, Angelica Caraman, the most active electoral constituencies in the country were Dondușeni, UTA Găgăuzia, Ocnița and Taraclia. The lowest participation rate was recorded in Nisporeni, Hîncești and Cantemir districts.
In the 30 polling stations open for voters on the left of the Nistru, 16,000 voters cast their votes, without significant incidents. Most of the citizens who came to the polls are aged between 56 and 65, their turnout is about 20 percent. Young people aged between 18 and 25 cast their right to vote in a proportion of more than 8 percent, and in the case of people aged between 26 and 35, this is almost 15 percent.
Renato Usatîi promises to fight for the Republic of Moldova, regardless of the outcome of the elections
Renato Usatîi, the candidate for the position of president of the Republic of Moldova appointed by Our Party, made the first statements after the polling stations closed in the country. He claims that "today, the vote of every citizen matters not for one electoral competitor or another, but for the future of the Republic of Moldova".
"Regardless of the result I will have in this election, for me and my team the fight for the Republic of Moldova continues. (…) I assure you, as long as I live, I will fight to create a system in which the voice of every citizen will be heard".
146 incidents, recorded by the police at the polling stations throughout the day
About 150 incidents were recorded at the polling stations in the Republic of Moldova throughout today, announced the General Police Inspectorate.
32 cases of photographing the ballot papers and 15 cases of campaigning were registered in Orhei, Chisinau, Briceni, Fălești, Găgăuzia and other regions of the country. The law enforcement officers were also notified of actions of voters’ bribing, but the facts were not checked.
There were also cases of ballot paper damage, organized transportation of voters, the presence of several people in the voting booth, violation of the right to vote, removal of the ballot from the polling station, the absence of the voter in the electoral list and other incidents such as conflicts in the polling stations, the presence of intoxicated people at polling stations or actions of hooliganism.
The police say that they have notified the Central Electoral Commission about all the violations registered in the electoral process up to now.
Tudor Ulianovschi, grateful to the citizens for their vote: “The trust you’ve shown honors me”
The independent candidate Tudor Ulianovschi thanked the Moldovan citizens for voting for him in today's elections. “The trust you’ve shown honours me, makes me responsible and gives me the strength to continue the fight for a normal, prosperous and united Moldova, which we all deserve. I promise not to disappoint you and to stay true to the principles I shared in this campaign."
Voting, extended in Bucharest, Moscow and Livry-Gargan. MAE reacts
A number of electoral offices abroad decided to extend the activity schedule beyond 9:00 p.m., confirms the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. According to the MAE, the decision was made "due to the large number of waiting voters".
Thus, they extended their activity by 2 hours, two open polling stations in Bucharest, Romania, two open polling stations in Moscow, Russian Federation, and one open polling station in Livry-Gargan, France.
MAE announces that around 400 people are waiting in these polling stations.
"All citizens shall exercise their right to vote within the limits of the available ballot papers."
Natalia Morari denounces election fraud and pleads for strengthening the opposition, after the vote
"The elections were stolen" - declared the independent candidate Natalia Morari, after the polling stations closed. According to her, "now is the time" for the opposition forces to join.
"These elections cannot be considered free or fair elections. Together with my team, I wish for a Moldova where you wish you never left and where you wish to return. And for that, I will continue to fight".
We remind that the authorities have not yet responded to the accusations.
Chicu thanks the voters and accuses the authorities of election fraud
The candidate for the seat of president, Ion Chicu, sent a message of gratitude to the citizens. He thanked the voters and said that the citizens proved that they "trust the future of the country".
"I am very grateful that you gave our state another chance, you showed that you trust the future of the country and you came today and voted. I thank everyone for this gesture of great civic and patriotic responsibility".
In his message, the former prime minister, who is running on behalf of the Party of Development and Consolidation of Moldova, accused the authorities of election fraud. According to him, multiple violations of the electoral code were reported. So far, the authorities have not commented on the allegations.
Stoianoglo, the first message after the polling stations closed: "Regardless of the result, it matters that each of you had a say"
After the end of the voting process, the presidential candidates thanked the voters who supported them.
Regardless of the results of this election, it matters that today every citizen had a say, declared the candidate of the Socialists, Alexandr Stoianoglo, during a briefing.
"Thank you for every vote, for the energy and trust you have invested in this democratic process. Regardless of the results of this election, what matters is that today, each of you had a say. Thank you for choosing to participate and for demonstrating that Moldova is a living country and has the power to define its future," said Stoianoglo.
Bomb alert at a polling station in Italy. MAE specifications
Bomb alert at a polling station in Italy, announces the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Chisinau. According to the authorities, following the alert, the decision was taken to suspend the voting process for a short period, to verify the place by the competent Italian authorities.
The electoral office of the polling station allowed all waiting citizens to vote, after which the Italian authorities decided to evacuate and check the building.
Throughout this period, the ballot papers were kept in a secure space, and the ballot box continued to be monitored with the video camera made available by the CEC.
After verification actions are completed, depending on the result, the polling station will resume its activity.
At this time, the electoral office of the polling station in Bologna does not report citizens waiting to vote.
Voting process has ended, but not in all polling stations
The voting process has ended, but not in all polling stations. In Chisinau and in 3 countries - the process was extended. The information was confirmed for „Teleradio-Moldova” Broadcaster by the spokesperson of CEC Rodica Sîrbu.
According to CEC data, over 1,547,476 million citizens voted in the elections from October 20 until 21:00, which represents 51.41% of the total number of voters registered on the electoral rolls.
844,416 women and 702,526 men cast their votes by 21:00.
19.75% of all voters are aged between 56-65. They are followed by voters aged 36-45 – 19.60%, those aged 46-55 – 17.09%, 66-75 – 16.43%, 26-35 – 14.62 %. The percentage of young people aged 18-25 is 8.06%, surpassing the 76+ category, which was 4.54%.
Promo-LEX: Campaigning, rewards and deficiencies in electoral lists, reported on the day of elections
More than a thousand reports of incidents from observers in the country were received by the Promo-LEX observation mission, during the presidential elections and the constitutional referendum, by 19:00. Of these, 938 were processed and confirmed.
According to the representatives of Promo-LEX, among the reported incidents are the presence of electoral advertising materials within the range of polling stations; campaigning or negative PR in the 100 m perimeter and/or within the polling station to determine the voters' choice; the unjustified presence of unauthorized persons in the premises and near the polling station. Also, more than 70 cases were registered in which the secrecy of the vote was violated.
Promo-LEX also announces that several attempts or even situations of material or monetary rewards offered to voters in the 100-meter perimeter of the polling station to determine the voters' vote were reported.
In Căușeni, Nisporeni, as well as on the left side of the Nistru, several transport units were observed that would have organized organized transportation of voters to the polling stations.
Four cases of intimidation or acts of violence involving voters, members of the electoral office of the polling station, observers, media or other persons were also reported.
Promo-LEX announces that several incidents related to the organization of voting were recorded, including the incorrect sealing of ballot boxes, the interruption during the day of the process of filming the electoral operations, as well as cases of deficiencies in the electoral lists. In some cases, the persons were not found in the lists, and in others, voters reported errors regarding addresses or identity.
CEC tests a new tool. Voters signed on digital tablets
Voters tested signing on digital tablets in 12 polling stations. According to the Central Electoral Commission, this tool could take the place of additional electoral lists on paper. This innovative system is implemented in 11 polling stations in Romania and in one polling station intended for voters on the left side of the Nistru. Also, the CEC states that the officials from the electoral offices of the polling stations informed the electoral authority that the digital tablets work without difficulties and considerably reduce the time for voting.
Over 110 incidents, reported by the IGP at the polling stations in the Republic of Moldova
The General Police Inspectorate reported incidents until 19:00, including photographing ballot papers, bribing voters, campaigning, organized transportation of voters, presence at the ballot boxes in a state of intoxication, acts of hooliganism, and conflicts. According to the Police, a total of 113 incidents were recorded. Also, in Chisinau, Drochia and Comrat, Florești, Leova and Rezina, 11 cases of damaging the ballot paper were recorded. The presence of several people in the voting booth was attested in Chisinau and Dubăsari.
The threshold for validating the referendum, reached two hours before the polling stations close, CEC
The constitutional republican referendum on the accession of the Republic of Moldova to the European Union was recognized as valid. The Central Electoral Commission (CEC) announces that over 1.2 million Moldovans, i.e. 42.44 percent of the voters, voted in the referendum by 18:00. We remind that the threshold for validating the referendum is one-third (33.3%) of the total number of voters.
So far, in all, more than 1.3 million citizens or 48.70% of the voters registered in the electoral lists came to the polling stations. The most active are the voters from Dondușeni, Criuleni, Fălești and Taraclia.
In the 30 polling stations open for citizens on the left side of the Nistru River, 15,000 voters went to the polls.
Over 198,000 citizens with the right to vote have voted in polling stations open abroad. According to the CEC, the most active voting was registered in the open polling stations in the Russian Federation, Romania and Italy.
The polls will close at 21:00, Chisinau time.
Moldovan citizens urged to vote on historic October 20 referendum
The President of the Romanian Senate, Nicolae Ciucă, and Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu have urged Moldovan citizens to participate in the referendum and select the most suitable path for the future of their country.
“Make this Sunday a day of triumph for your national aspirations. Romania awaits you in the European Union to build a future of prosperity and security together,” stated Nicolae Ciucă.
Additionally, Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu emphasised that October 20 is a “historic” day for our country.
Top polling stations for Moldovan voters abroad revealed
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE), the most requested polling stations abroad as of 16:00 are located in the cities of Istanbul, The Hague, Groningen, Northampton, London, Bucharest, and Timișoara, Romania. The MAE states that all polling stations abroad have a sufficient number of ballot papers.
As reported by the Central Electoral Commission (CEC), by 16:25, the number of voters abroad who have exercised their right to vote reached 150,000.
Organised voter transport and bribery among key election issues
The number of incidents recorded on election day has risen to 75. According to the General Inspectorate of Police, the main illegal activities observed by law enforcement include voter bribery, organised transportation to polling stations, electoral campaigning, and the damage or photographing of ballots.
Additionally, 20 incidents were reported where voters arrived at polling stations intoxicated, causing conflicts or engaging in acts of hooliganism.
Voter turnout in Moldova's referendum reaches 32.11%
As of 15:00, the voter turnout for the referendum was recorded at 32.11%.
At this hour, over 39% of voters have exercised their right to vote. For comparison, during the first round of the presidential elections on November 1, 2020, approximately 33% of voters had cast their ballots by this time.
In Japan and China, the voting process has concluded. The remaining polling stations are fully operational, except for three in the USA and one in Canada, which will open at 17:00, according to Chișinău time.
Regarding voter turnout for the referendum, the president of the Central Electoral Commission (CEC) indicated that data is being collected from the polling stations to the district councils and from the councils to the CEC.
“Reporting is conducted manually by counting the signatures on the electoral lists, which are then transmitted via phone and email to the Central Electoral Commission.”
By 15:00, 907,594 voters had participated in the referendum, resulting in a turnout of 32.11%.
Moldovan presidential elections see 34% voter turnout
As of this hour, voter turnout has exceeded 34% of the total number of registered voters. According to the Central Electoral Commission (CEC), more than 980,000 eligible Moldovan voters have cast their ballots thus far.
According to the legislation, presidential elections are deemed valid if at least one-third of the total number of voters participate, which is equivalent to 33.33%.
Concerns rise over vote secrecy in Moldova’s elections
Observers from Promo-LEX reported 658 electoral incidents by 14:00 on election day. Of these, 575 were processed, according to statements made by Nicolae Panfil, head of the Observation Mission. The most frequently reported violation pertains to the secrecy of the vote, with 60 cases recorded. This type of incident may indicate risks associated with controlled voting, such as photographing the ballot to prove that the voter voted according to the received instructions, Nicolae Panfil warned.
Other incidents include instances of electoral corruption. In the Russian Federation, voters are reportedly offered white jackets inscribed with the message "Russia-Moldova," according to the election observation mission. Additionally, reports indicate that Moldovans in Russia, after voting, were invited to a café near the polling station and offered cards.
In the Republic of Moldova, reports indicate that a political party allegedly offered up to 3,000 lei in exchange for a vote, according to data presented by Promo-LEX.
Moldovan referendum sees 16.14% turnout by noon
The Central Electoral Commission (CEC) specifies that data is collected from electoral offices at voting sections to the electoral councils of the electoral constituencies and subsequently to the Central Electoral Commission. Reporting is conducted manually, involving the counting of signatures from the electoral lists and the transmission of data via phone and email.
The electoral authority notes, “This results in a delay of approximately one hour in reporting the figures for the referendum.”
Moldova’s Prime Minister urges civic engagement in elections
Prime Minister Dorin Recean cast his vote alongside his wife, expressing support “for a strong and prosperous country.” The head of the Government urged citizens to participate in the electoral process and to collect two ballots: one for the presidential elections and another for the referendum.
When asked about the progress of the electoral process, the Prime Minister stated that, thus far, there have been no major incidents. “The violations are minor and do not affect the outcome of the elections and the referendum. Even if attempts are made, they will not succeed. I firmly believe that the citizens of the Republic of Moldova know how to separate the wheat from the chaff.”
Regarding the situation in the Russian Federation, where queues formed at the two polling stations in Moscow, the Prime Minister noted that he has already warned Moscow against permitting illegal activities in the electoral process.
“There is evidence of an organisation of the electoral process, particularly concerning the transportation of voters. Gifts are also being distributed there. I have warned the authorities in the Russian Federation that it is illegal to engage in such actions.”
Supporters of Shor accused of undermining elections
The number of incidents reported during the elections has risen to 34. Law enforcement officials indicate that they have received "massive" notifications regarding the encouragement from supporters of "a criminal group" for citizens to commit more illegal acts in the electoral process, with the aim of undermining the elections, according to the General Inspectorate of Police.
Voter corruption, organised transportation of voters, electoral campaigning, or damaging and photographing ballots are among the illegal acts identified by the Police. In other instances, voters have arrived at the polls inebriated, causing conflicts or engaging in acts of hooliganism.
Moldova's electoral process: Grosu issues warning to disruptors
Igor Grosu, President of the Parliament, expressed his right to vote today. He arrived at the polling station accompanied by his wife and daughter, who was voting for the first time in this election. The Speaker stated that he voted for "the Republic of Moldova and its citizens to live in a space of peace and prosperity, where human life and rights are respected."
When asked about the progress of the electoral process, Grosu replied that it was "going well," both in the country and among the diaspora. He also conveyed a message to those "with different intentions."
"I want to emphasize that we are aware of their intentions and do not share them. I offer them free advice to stay calm, as our institutions will intervene decisively should anyone attempt to disrupt the electoral process. I do not recommend it, in a friendly way."
Long queues form at polling stations abroad in Moldova's elections
As of this hour, a significant number of citizens are waiting to exercise their right to vote overseas. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that queues have developed at several polling stations in France, the Russian Federation, Romania, Greece, Italy, and Turkey.
Lines of 50 to 100 people have formed at the following locations: 38/73 Athens 2, Greece; 38/124 Modena, Italy; 38/179 Bucharest 2 (consular section), Romania; 38/180 Bucharest 3; 38/189 Galați; 38/191 Sibiu; 38/193 Timișoara; and 38/228 Istanbul (general consulate), Turkey.
A line of over 100 people has been reported at: 38/36 Villeneuve-Saint-Georges 1, France; 38/194 Moscow 1 (embassy headquarters), the Russian Federation; and 38/195 Moscow 2 (embassy headquarters), the Russian Federation.
For real-time updates on how voting is proceeding for citizens abroad, please click HERE.
Victoria Furtună champions Moldova's global engagement
Victoria Furtună, an independent candidate in this election, exercised her right to vote. She stated that she cast her vote “for a Moldova that maintains relations with all countries around the globe.”
“I voted for us, the people, to restore our history, the language of our nation, and our faith in God. I assure you that, together, we will be the architects of a new Moldova.”
Police document 19 incidents in today’s election process
The General Inspectorate of Police has announced that it recorded 19 incidents during today’s elections. Among these incidents are the organized transportation of voters to polling stations, as well as instances of photographing or damaging ballots.
Natalia Morari votes for a renewed Moldova and change
Presidential candidate Natalia Morari has exercised her right to vote. She stated that she voted for a change that every citizen of the Republic of Moldova deserves.
"We all deserve this change. I voted for a renewed Moldova, a country that you do not want to leave but would want to return to (…) I hope that this president will be elected through free and fair elections and will respect the law and the Constitution. I only took one ballot."
Maia Sandu calls for Moldovans to determine their fate
The incumbent president, Maia Sandu, who is seeking re-election, exercised her right to vote. Sandu stated that she voted “for the Republic of Moldova to develop in peace and freedom,” so that the country “can build the future it deserves.” The PAS candidate urged citizens both domestically and abroad to follow her example.
“I voted because Moldovans must determine their own fate, not others, not through dirty money, not through lies, but through the will of the people. Each person’s vote is important; it is your voice for your fate, the choice for how you will live starting tomorrow.”
MAE: The crowds at the two polling stations in Russia were artificially created
Polling stations in the Russian Federation opened at 07:00 local time and are operating normally. In light of the high number of voters reported at the two polling stations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) states that these crowds resulted from attempts to illegally transport voters to the polling locations.
“During the preparation for the electoral exercise, we alerted the Russian authorities to attempts by certain entities to organise the transportation of citizens to the polling stations at our Embassy in Moscow. Therefore, we believe that the crowds at the two polling stations in Russia were artificially created to jeopardise the electoral process,” the MAE specifies.
In this context, the MAE repeatedly emphasises to the Russian authorities and any involved entities the inadmissibility of illegally transporting voters to polling stations and confirms that the Moscow stations are equipped with the maximum number of ballots—5,000 for each station.
The decision to open polling stations solely at the Embassy premises in the Russian Federation was made due to the inability to meet all security requirements in other cities or locations, ensuring that there would be no risks to our citizens coming to vote or to the electoral officials overseeing the process.
For the presidential elections and the constitutional referendum, there are two polling stations open in the Russian Federation.
Irina Vlah champions a peaceful Moldova in her vote
Irina Vlah, the candidate for the presidency of the country, exercised her right to vote. She stated that she voted "for a peaceful and neutral Moldova, where society lives in harmony and unity."
"I voted for a president who cares about people."
Every vote counts: Renato Usatîi's call to action
The candidate for the presidency of the Republic of Moldova, Renato Usatîi, exercised his right to vote. The former mayor of Bălți urged Moldovans, both from within the country and those residing abroad, to participate in the electoral process, emphasising that “every vote counts for the future of the country.”
“Today, I voted so that citizens will not desire a change for the next four years. I voted for the Republic of Moldova to have a leader who is accountable for everything and, most importantly, to do everything necessary for its citizens.”
Tudor Ulianovschi votes for the future of Moldova
Tudor Ulianovschi, the candidate for the presidency of the Republic of Moldova, exercised his right to vote.
"I voted for the future of Moldova, for a prosperous future, for a Moldova characterised by normality, understanding, unity, and a shared desire to develop together, both within the Republic of Moldova and abroad."
Ulianovschi urged all citizens to participate in the electoral process, emphasising that "each person's participation is crucial for our future."
CEC reports over 200,000 voters in presidential elections
As of this hour, over 200,000 voters have presented themselves at polling stations to exercise their right to vote, representing a turnout of over 7 percent. According to the Central Electoral Commission (CEC), this voter turnout is comparable to the presidential election of 2020. Polling stations in the United Kingdom and Ireland have opened, with additional stations in the United States and Canada scheduled to open soon.
In reference to the voting process in the Russian Federation, CEC President Angelica Caraman stated that the two polling stations there have been supplied with the maximum number of ballots—5,000 for each election.
"We would like to remind you that the primary reason for organizing these polling stations was the significant risk to the security of voters and electoral officials," she noted.
Caraman also indicated that the CEC has been informed of situations in some foreign polling stations where individuals with non-compliant documents were present, attempting to register as representatives of electoral competitors.
She emphasized that during electoral processes, voters, electoral officials, representatives of electoral competitors, referendum participants, observers, and the media all have the right to participate, provided they are registered according to the rules outlined in the regulations adopted by the Central Electoral Commission.
Additionally, Caraman noted that six cases of violations or incidents have been recorded. These include an alleged case of voter bribery, a case of photographing the ballot, and four other incidents. All cases are currently under investigation by the General Police Inspectorate.
PDCM candidate Ion Chicu urges civic engagement in Moldova's elections
Ion Chicu, the candidate of the Development and Consolidation Party of Moldova (PDCM) for the presidency, has cast his vote. He stated that he voted "for the Republic of Moldova" and for the development of the country. The former prime minister urged citizens to participate in the electoral process to determine "the fate of the country," emphasizing that "it depends on us today what will happen in the country over the next four years."
"I voted specifically for an independent press," Chicu remarked, "so that citizens can vote responsibly when they reach the elections."
Octavian Țîcu emphasises peace in presidential vote
The candidate for president of the Republic of Moldova, Octavian Țîcu, has exercised his right to vote. Țîcu stated that he voted for peace and the welfare of the country.
"I said no to war and yes to peace because we need peace now more than ever and a predictable future. We need a strong economy that will bring us prosperity and well-being at home. My hopes rest in the hands of the citizens of the Republic of Moldova, who will decide today what kind of president they wish to have."
Andrei Năstase calls for a better future for Moldova
Andrei Năstase stated that he voted for a better future for our country, for Moldova and its citizens: “I voted for a country where we have order, justice, and prosperity. I voted for a capable, courageous, and competent president who can combat corruption and poverty, and protect our families, which I wish to see reunited at home (...)”
Varnița reports smooth voting process for Transnistrian region
Teleradio Moldova correspondent in Varnița: "We are currently in Varnița, at one of the 30 polling stations that have been opened for voters in the Transnistrian region. Today, Varnița has three polling stations: two at the Varnița Theoretical Lyceum and one at a community centre. The process is proceeding smoothly, and the people I spoke with indicated that they came to vote for peace, for the country, and for a better future."
The first incidents reported by Promo-LEX
The association "Promo-LEX" has reported 173 violations noted by observers from its field monitoring mission. Of these, 34 have already been verified and confirmed as incidents, according to Nicolae Panfil, head of Promo-LEX Observation Mission.
The presence of advertising or electoral materials in polling stations or within a radius of up to 100 metres; photographing or displaying the ballot; group voting; and the presence of unauthorised individuals in polling stations are just a few of the violations reported by Promo-LEX thus far.
UPDATE 8:40 AM: Candidate Vasile Tarlev exercises his right to vote
Vasile Tarlev, the presidential candidate representing the "Future of Moldova" Party, has exercised his right to vote. He arrived at the polling station accompanied by his wife and stated that he voted "for the future of the Republic of Moldova."
“A better and more prosperous future, for stability and success. (...) I came with optimistic thoughts, thoughts of peace, courage, and the desire to do beautiful things for our country, Moldova.”
UPDATE 8:42 AM: Long queues at two polling stations in the Russian Federation
At the two polling stations established at the Embassy of the Republic of Moldova, dozens of Moldovans gathered to cast their votes. At the entrance, everyone is screened by a metal detector, with Russian folk music playing in the background.
UPDATE 8:10 AM: CEC: All polling stations have commenced operations without incidents
Angelica Caraman, President of the CEC, stated that the first polling station opened in Japan, where the voting process began at 1:00 AM, Chișinău time. “Currently, the voting process is ongoing in China, Japan, Azerbaijan, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Israel, the Russian Federation, Romania, Turkey, Bulgaria, Greece, Cyprus, Ukraine, Belarus, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Throughout the day, we will provide updates on the opening of polling stations in Central and Western Europe,” Caraman also noted.
For the presidential elections and the constitutional referendum, over 7.3 million ballots have been printed, with 1.7 million distributed to polling stations abroad.
The base electoral lists include 2,714,239 voters.
UPDATE 7:00 AM: All polling stations across the Republic of Moldova have officially opened.
Polling stations will remain open from 7:00 AM until 9:00 PM, providing citizens ample time to fulfill their civic duty.
Each voter will sign the list of electoral office members at the polling station twice: once upon receiving their ballot for the presidential election and again for the national constitutional referendum. In the presidential election, voters may stamp their choice next to one of the 11 candidates registered by the Central Electoral Commission (CEC). For the referendum, voters will select "YES" or "NO" in response to the following question: "Do you support amending the Constitution for the Republic of Moldova’s accession to the European Union?"
For the referendum to be valid, at least one-third of registered voters must participate. Furthermore, at least half of those voting must support the amendment for it to pass. This translates to a minimum of 550,000 voters stamping "Voted" on "YES."
To participate in the election, voters must present one of the following valid identity documents:
- The identity card of a Republic of Moldova citizen, confirming the voter's domicile or temporary residence within the polling station area.
- A temporary identity card indicating the holder’s Moldovan citizenship, domicile, or temporary residence.
- A Republic of Moldova passport, even if expired.
Citizens who are abroad on election day can vote at any of the 231 polling stations established internationally, as approved by the Central Electoral Commission.
The elections are being closely monitored by 2,061 national and international observers, all accredited by the CEC, ensuring transparency throughout the voting process.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
