Critics warn of democratic backslide as Moldova eyes mayor removals
The Republic of Moldova’s ruling Action and Solidarity Party (PAS) has introduced a draft law that would allow Parliament to suspend mayors and local councillors. Under the proposal, officials could be removed if they violate the Constitution or pose a threat to national security.
The measure, part of a new Code on the Organisation and Functioning of Parliament, faced intense scrutiny during public consultations on Monday. The initiative has sparked widespread criticism from local authorities and opposition groups, who view it as an assault on democratic principles.
Constitutional concerns
Viorel Furdui, Executive Director of the Congress of Local Authorities from Moldova (CALM), warned that the legal language is dangerously "vague and broad." He noted that both the president and mayors are directly elected, arguing that the removal process should remain rigorous to protect democratic mandates.
Chisinau Mayor Ion Ceban condemned the move, describing it as a "dictatorial" shift and comparing the ruling party's tactics to those of North Korea. Ceban, who also serves as CALM’s vice president, called the bill a direct attack on local leadership.
Political and expert backlash
The European Social Democratic Party (PSDE) accused the government of attempting to subordinate local leaders and nullify the will of the voters. Similarly, the Moldovan National Party (PNM) warned that the changes set a "dangerous precedent" for authoritarianism.
Experts from the Initiative for Peace (I4P) recommended removing the provisions entirely. They argued that the bill contradicts the principle of local autonomy and the separation of powers, failing to meet European standards.
Legislative justification
PAS lawmaker Vasile Gradinaru defended the need for swifter action, stating that current criminal proceedings against corrupt or law-breaking officials take too long. He argued that lawmakers need tools to prevent illegal acts before a final court ruling is reached after years of litigation.
President Maia Sandu stated on Monday that she had not yet reviewed the draft proposal and that no prior discussions regarding the measure had taken place with her office.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
