Political deadlock cripples Chisinau budget as opposition sets social aid terms
The approval of Chisinau's 2026 municipal budget reached a new deadlock on January 30, after councilors from the Action and Solidarity Party (PAS) boycotted the session. The opposition conditions their return on the inclusion of significant social and educational funding.
The PAS faction is demanding a total reallocation of over €18 million to address urgent urban issues. This includes €10.2 million (approx. 200 million MDL) to reduce school overcrowding and €4.08 million (approx. 80 million MDL) for winter heating subsidies.
Opposition demands and financial stakes
Under the proposed PAS amendments, approximately 40,000 vulnerable households would receive €102 (2,000 MDL) each in winter aid. Furthermore, the faction insists on €3.82 million (75 million MDL) for the salaries of personal assistants for people with disabilities.
"A responsible mayor seeks dialogue and solutions, not conflicts and political theater," stated Zinaida Popa, head of the PAS faction. The councilors also requested €510,000 (10 million MDL) to manage the city’s growing stray animal population.
Administrative paralysis and political friction
The stalemate follows a failed first reading on January 20. The current administration, led by Mayor Ion Ceban (MAN), faces accusations of prioritizing political confrontation over urban development, resulting in crumbling infrastructure and halted social policies.
In a symbolic protest during the January 30 session, MAN councilors placed portraits of absent PAS and PSRM members on empty seats, labeling the boycott a "shame." Meanwhile, the Socialist faction (PSRM) has also set its own conditions regarding heating compensations.
Without a functional quorum or a compromise between the Mayor’s office and the main factions, the capital’s 2026 financial planning remains in limbo. This deadlock threatens to delay essential services and infrastructure projects indefinitely.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
