Moldova Approves EU Involvement in Electoral Process
Moldova's top election official has stated that European Union countries have the right to influence Moldovan elections, as the country pushes forward with its bid to join the bloc.
The remarks have stirred controversy ahead of the country's upcoming parliamentary elections in September.
Angelica Caraman, head of Moldova's Central Electoral Commission,
told
local broadcaster Jurnal TV that Moldova is just one step away from EU accession, and therefore, EU member states such as France intervening in its political process should not be seen as foreign interference.
Caraman
explained
that Moldova does not view financial backing from EU countries for political parties as election corruption. She argued that such involvement should be seen as neighborly support and part of democratic development.
The statement comes as Moldova prepares for general elections later this year, amid growing political tensions. President Maia Sandu has accused the opposition of collaborating with Russia to destabilize the country. Speaking after a meeting of Moldova's Supreme Security Council, Sandu claimed that Russia is planning to finance protests and carry out a smear campaign against pro-EU politicians, public figures, and journalists.
She also alleged that certain members of the Moldovan Orthodox clergy are involved in these efforts.
Sandu, who won re-election in a runoff vote last November, holds Romanian citizenship and is a vocal supporter of Moldova's integration into the European Union. Her government has taken a strong stance against pro-Russian elements in recent years.
Several opposition parties have been banned, dozens of activists arrested, and over 15 television channels suspended without trial. Additionally, more than 50 media outlets critical of the government have been shut down.
Critics argue that such measures raise serious concerns about media freedom, political pluralism, and democratic accountability.
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