The president of Moldova, Maia Sandu, was re-elected on Sunday November 3.
The pro-European leader won with nearly 55% of the votes against Alexandr Stoianoglo, supported by the pro-Russians.
She received congratulations from Emmanuel Macron.
“A lesson in democracy.” Two weeks after the “yes” victory in the referendum on the EU, Moldova confirmed its European trajectory on Sunday, November 3, by reappointing its president Maia Sandu following a tense election against a backdrop of suspicions of Russian interference. The 52-year-old candidate received 54.9% of the vote, compared to 45% for Alexandr Stoianoglo, a 57-year-old former prosecutor supported by the pro-Russian socialists, according to the almost final results published by the Electoral Commission.
“Today, dear Moldovans, you have given a lesson in democracy worthy of inclusion in the history books”launched the re-elected president from her campaign headquarters, in a charged atmosphere. “Moldova, you are victorious! Today you saved Moldova. I want you to know that I have heard all voices, including critical voices.”
“Democracy has triumphed,” rejoices Emmanuel Macron
If Alexandr Stoianoglo initially led, the trend reversed as the votes were counted. The one his adversaries treat “Man from Moscow” did not speak during the night, but had called a little earlier “quietly”. As during the recent legislative elections in Georgia (new window)another former Soviet republic, Russia (new window) has been accused of interfering in the electoral process, allegations categorically rejected by the Kremlin. But this time the outcome was favorable to the pro-EU camp.
Emmanuel Macron, who publicly supported Maia Sandu on Friday November 1, was delighted with his re-election. In a post published on (new window) during the night, the President of the Republic “congratulations Maia Sandu”. “Democracy has triumphed over all interference and maneuvers”he stressed. “France will continue to stand alongside Moldova on its European path.”
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The first woman to occupy, in 2020, the highest positions in this state located between NATO and the Russian sphere of influence, Maia Sandu turned her back on Vladimir Putin after the Russian invasion of neighboring Ukraine and carried out a clear turn towards the west. She came well ahead of the first round on October 20, but her rival was able to count on the support of several small candidates to narrow the gap.
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