Press review: Moldova's EU path challenged by corruption and pro-Kremlin forces
Moldovan media is reporting on potential challenges posed by pro-Kremlin forces to the country's European integration, as well as forecasts of increased sentencing in voter bribery cases.
Experts believe it is unlikely that a constitutional majority capable of obstructing pro-Kremlin efforts to derail Moldova's EU integration will emerge in the near future, according to Radio Chișinău. The publication of constitutional amendments in the Official Monitor, following the October 20 referendum, represents the "final technical step" necessary to formalise changes to the Fundamental Law, according to WatchDog expert Andrei Curăraru. Curăraru added that any future revision of the Constitution would require another referendum or a constitutional majority, a scenario that currently appears implausible in the short term. Former Constitutional Court President Alexandru Tănase argues that reactions from pro-Russian forces are inconsequential, emphasising that the constitutional amendments adopted by referendum constitute a decision solely of the Constitutional Court.
A specialised judicial panel established to prioritise corruption and electoral bribery cases is operating efficiently, according to Ion Guzun, a member of the Superior Council of Magistracy. In a Moldova 1 broadcast, he stated that more sentences could be handed down in voter bribery cases in the near future. Guzun noted that investigative judges, who issue search warrants, have responded promptly in these cases. However, he acknowledged that the departure of several judges has impacted the timeframe for examining cases. Regarding judicial reform, Guzun stated that it should have been a priority in previous administrations but that the issue will remain relevant even after Moldova's integration into the European Union.
Moldpres published statements by Prime Minister Dorin Recean, who drew attention to an organised crime group supported by external entities with significant funds equivalent to almost 2% of Moldova's GDP. According to the Prime Minister, this attack represents an evolving form of hybrid warfare targeting the very essence of democracy. Recean emphasised the importance of decisive action by prosecutors and judges to ensure concrete outcomes in these corruption and electoral fraud cases. The official also highlighted the persistent problem of electoral fraud, explaining that the justice system has not been able to respond promptly and effectively but emphasised that the pace and approaches in this area must be changed.
Bizlaw reports that, at the end of the third quarter of 2024, asking prices for residential real estate in Chisinau recorded a moderate increase, according to data published by the National Bank of Moldova (NBM). The residential real estate price index (RPPI) reached 166.6%, up 0.4% from the second quarter of 2024 and a significant increase of 18.5% compared to the same period last year. On the primary market, the RPPI reached 175.9%, remaining constant compared to the previous quarter but recording an 18.8% increase compared to the third quarter of 2023. On the secondary market, the index reached 160.6%, with a 0.5% increase compared to the second quarter and an 18.4% increase compared to the same period last year. These data suggest a relative stabilisation of prices on the Chisinau real estate market, with a larger difference compared to the previous year than to the previous quarter.
Agora.md writes that, in the coming days, several traffic surveillance cameras in Chisinau will be dismantled for maintenance. According to Diana Fetco, a press officer at the General Police Inspectorate (IGP), the cameras will be temporarily removed for metrological verification and then reinstalled. The maintenance procedure could last until the end of November. During the period when the cameras are absent, approximately 48 hours, traffic will be monitored by patrol crews of the National Public Security Inspectorate, the IGP representative emphasised.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
