Dan Perciun: Prime Minister candidacy is the party's decision

The future Prime Minister of the Republic of Moldova should be someone who meets society's expectations, can establish a positive relationship with the ruling party, and can easily integrate into its values and policies, according to Dan Perciun, the Minister of Education and Research. When asked if he would be a suitable candidate for this position, Perciun stated that the decision is not up to him.
Dan Perciun, Minister of Education, addressed journalists on Monday, July 6, during an event honoring graduates who achieved an average score of 10 on their baccalaureate exams. He stated, “This is a decision that I will not make alone; it is a decision we make as a party. At this stage, I want to continue my work at the Ministry of Education.”
When asked if he had been offered the position of Prime Minister, Perciun clarified that there had been “such discussions” but none within the faction, party, or decision-making structures.
He emphasized that the future Prime Minister must “aim to put public finances in order” and fully embrace the territorial-administrative reform, budgetary-fiscal policies, and the restructuring of state-owned enterprises. “Order and cleanliness are needed in this segment,” he pointed out, adding that the decision regarding the Prime Minister candidate will be a “moderate” one.
Perciun also noted the public debate surrounding governmental policies and their alignment with previous government actions. “I believe this is an important stage that will unfold in the coming weeks, leading to the most appropriate decision,” he stated.
Regarding disagreements with the resigning Prime Minister, Alexandru Munteanu, which Perciun previously acknowledged, he reiterated that the Action and Solidarity Party respects Munteanu’s decision. “Our priority now is to continue with institutional activities,” he affirmed.
Perciun said, “We had some divergences regarding budgetary-fiscal policy, but I cannot say if that was the only reason for his resignation. We respect his decision and must now focus on moving forward.”
Alexandru Munteanu announced his resignation on July 3 via social media, explaining that he chose to leave “at the moment he realized he could no longer exercise his mandate in accordance with his principles and beliefs.” He commented, “The reasons behind the resignation are more complicated. I believe that time will bring clarity to this matter.”
During a press conference following Munteanu’s resignation, President Maia Sandu dismissed claims of political pressure, asserting that Munteanu “had a free hand” in leading the government. She mentioned that he did not set any preconditions for his departure and cited only discussions about disagreements with Minister Dan Perciun.
On the same day, Perciun confirmed that he had discussed budgetary and fiscal policy with Munteanu, particularly regarding “how certain issues that were not fully addressed in government discussions were represented in that policy and led to public dissatisfaction.” In a Facebook Live session, Perciun emphasized his commitment to open dialogue on differing opinions, stating, “We need to explore how things can be done differently or better in the future.”