PM-designate Tofan vows transparent sale of derelict state assets
Moldova’s Prime Minister-designate, Vasile Tofan, has pledged to sell off unused state assets, declaring that he will no longer tolerate municipal properties decaying into ruins under government control.
Speaking during his parliamentary confirmation hearing, Tofan assured lawmakers that all transactions would follow strict, transparent procedures, dismissing fears of public criticism or political backlash.
A stark choice for economic reform
Tofan addressed lawmakers' concerns regarding whether the government would establish a clear methodology to assess public interest before privatizing real estate. He acknowledged that the move would face strong pushback from political opponents and vested interests.
"This will be one of our major battles, and I expect significant public criticism—some genuine, but much of it manipulative from those resisting reform in this sector," Tofan stated.
He highlighted that hundreds of thousands of square meters of state-owned properties are currently mismanaged or abused, asserting that the state has proven to be a poor property manager.
Market-driven transparent auctions
To secure fair market value, the incoming prime minister proposed using Dutch auctions. Under this system, bidding starts at a high price and gradually decreases until a buyer accepts the rate, ensuring open market competition and full transparency.
Tofan framed the decision as a direct financial trade-off for the country's fiscal policy. He argued that the government must choose between selling derelict properties to private investors or raising the Value Added Tax (VAT) on medicines from 8% to 20%.
"I will no longer tolerate seeing these ruins across Chisinau and other cities while the state and the Public Property Agency hoard them like a brooding hen," Tofan insisted. "Allowing property to lie abandoned for 30 years is not protecting public wealth—it is an abuse against our citizens."
Unwavering commitment despite political risks
Addressing potential legal and political scrutiny, Tofan emphasized his determination to carry out the reform regardless of opposition or intimidation from oversight agencies.
"I am deeply determined and I am not afraid," Tofan said. "I am not afraid of the National Anti-Corruption Center, nor the Information and Security Service, nor anyone else. People may claim I am abusing my power to sell public property, but I will move forward."
He assured Parliament that turning these stagnant assets into productive private investments would generate substantial revenue for the national budget and restore public trust. His remarks were met with applause from lawmakers in the chamber.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
