Budget stalemate: Chisinau council meeting collapses amid quorum crisis
The Chisinau Municipal Council (CMC) failed to ratify the capital’s 2026 municipal budget during its first session of the year on January 20. The meeting collapsed after councilors from the Party of Socialists (PSRM) and the Action and Solidarity Party (PAS) staged a walkout, leaving the body without a quorum.
While the council successfully approved three minor agenda items, including energy efficiency projects for kindergartens, the session disintegrated during budget discussions. Deep political divisions surfaced when the Mayor's office introduced last-minute amendments, which opposition factions labeled as illegal.
"We will not be complicit in illegal acts," stated socialist councilor Dinari Cojocaru shortly before leading his faction out of the hall. The departure of PSRM was soon followed by PAS representatives, effectively halting all legislative progress.
Accusations of political theater
The tension peaked during a debate over the Urban Mobility Plan. A representative from the National Alternative Movement (MAN) requested a postponement, claiming a key official was on medical leave. This was immediately challenged by PAS faction leader Zinaida Popa.
"The secretariat confirms the official is present in the building. How long will you continue to lie to the people?" Popa asked before her faction also exited the session. MAN councilor Valentin Cebotari later characterized the dual walkout as a "political alliance" between PAS and PSRM aimed at sabotaging the city's development.
Next steps for the budget
Session Chair Denis Șova expressed disappointment over the deadlock, noting a sense of "déjà vu" regarding the political friction. He urged all factions to return to the table to address the city's pressing financial needs.
The CMC session is scheduled to resume on Wednesday, January 21, at 12:00 PM. The council must still address the remaining items on the agenda, most notably the 2026 fiscal framework which remains in limbo.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
