Moldova Bars Another Russia-Backed Party from Parliamentary Vote

Moldova’s electoral authority has barred the Russia-backed political party Greater Moldova from participating in Sunday’s parliamentary elections, citing suspected illegal financing, officials announced on Saturday.

The decision was made late Friday night. This marks the second Russia-aligned party to be excluded from the vote just days before polling, amid concerns over alleged Russian interference, the integrity of Moldova’s electoral process, and the country’s aspirations to join the European Union.

The Central Election Commission of Moldova said the party was excluded after police, security, and intelligence agencies concluded that it had engaged in illegal financing and the use of foreign funds.

According to reports from Moldpres, Greater Moldova leader Victoria Furttuna called the decision biased and said she plans to appeal.

The electoral authority found that the party had used undeclared financial resources and was suspected of attempting to influence voters by providing monetary incentives.

Officials also suspect that the party operated as a successor to a previously banned party led by Russia-aligned fugitive businessman Ilan Shor. Shor, who denies any wrongdoing, currently resides in Moscow.

Sunday’s parliamentary elections are seen as a critical juncture for Moldova, a former Soviet republic seeking EU membership.

The ruling, European-oriented Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), led by President Maia Sandu, has held a parliamentary majority since 2021. However, polls suggest PAS could lose its majority as opposition parties seek to appeal to voters concerned about rising costs of living, increasing poverty, and a sluggish economy.

Analysts warn that forming a coalition government could complicate PAS’s efforts to secure EU membership for Moldova by 2030.

Last week, another Russia-backed party, the Heart of Moldova from the pro-Russian Patriotic Bloc, was also barred from participating in the elections.

Russia maintains that it does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries.