Administrative paralysis in Durlești: Political fallout over €750,000 land-grab investigation
Chișinău Mayor Ion Ceban has accused the ruling Action and Solidarity Party (PAS) and President Maia Sandu of orchestrating a "political vendetta" in Durlești. The suburb is currently facing an administrative deadlock following the arrest of its top officials.
Mayor Eleonora Șaran and Vice-Mayor Mihai Enachi were detained in late February as part of a criminal probe into an alleged land-grabbing scheme. Prosecutors estimate the damage to the local budget at €750,000 (approx. 15 million MDL).
Speaking at a municipal meeting on March 17, Ceban claimed the arrests were a direct order from the presidency. He argued that the detention of the entire leadership was intended to trigger "intentional chaos" and facilitate a "raider attack" on the local administration.
Ceban warned that the suburb, Moldova's third-largest by population, is now unable to pay salaries or maintain public services. He alleged that the Ministry of Finance is blocking payments despite the detained Mayor signing the necessary documentation from custody.
PAS officials have firmly rejected these allegations, describing the case as a strictly judicial matter. MP Vasile Grădinaru stated that "the law must be respected regardless of rank" and urged Ceban to focus on municipal issues rather than "political posturing."
The investigation centers on allegations that officials falsified property records to acquire public land at symbolic prices. These plots were reportedly resold to real estate developers for sums reaching €40,000 each.
While the court prepares its verdict, the political tension between the capital’s administration and the central government continues to escalate. The Durlești leadership remains in preventive custody for 30 days as the investigation into the scheme proceeds.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
