The Moldovan government has reported a surge in anonymous death threats directed at citizens across the country, a campaign described by Prime Minister Dorin Recean as an “unprecedented attack” aimed at inciting fear and disrupting public confidence ahead of the presidential election.
The warnings were communicated by the Moldovan government’s press service.
According to Prime Minister Recean, the threats have targeted journalists, prominent public figures, and ordinary citizens alike, with the intent to intimidate voters in the lead-up to the second round of presidential elections scheduled for 3 November. Recean characterised the campaign as an effort to “sow panic and fear,” aiming to dissuade citizens from participating in the electoral process.
The Prime Minister reassured the public that Moldovan authorities are mobilised to maintain order and ensure the security of all citizens. In a public appeal, he urged voters to stand firm against these threats, asserting that the government is prepared to safeguard the democratic process. “State structures will guarantee order and the protection of citizens,” he stated, calling on the electorate to participate in Sunday’s voting.
The wave of threats appears to be particularly directed at those perceived to support pro-European Union policies. A high-profile incident involved a journalist from the Moldovan news outlet NewsMaker, who received a menacing message suggesting her life was at risk if she did not support President Maia Sandu in the election. In an audio recording, an unidentified caller reportedly said, “Choose Maia Sandu and save your life.”
This latest escalation coincides with Moldova’s second round of presidential elections, where incumbent President Maia Sandu is vying against Alexander Stoianoglo, the candidate representing the pro-Russian Socialist Party of Moldova. In the initial voting round, Sandu secured 42.37% of the votes, while Stoianoglo garnered 26.02%. Sandu’s pro-European stance has positioned her as a key figure in Moldova’s ongoing deliberations over its foreign policy direction, while Stoianoglo’s alignment with Russian interests has drawn scrutiny from both domestic and international observers.
Allegations of Russian interference in Moldovan politics are longstanding, with Moldovan officials previously accusing Moscow of deploying substantial financial resources to influence electoral and policy outcomes. These purported efforts, reportedly involving millions of dollars, are believed to target Moldova’s presidential election and an upcoming referendum on EU membership.
Moldovan authorities have repeatedly expressed concerns about foreign influence, linking recent tensions and threats to malicious actors intent on destabilising the country and hindering its progress towards European integration. Although the government has not disclosed specifics regarding the origins of these latest threats, their timing and targeted nature have heightened suspicions of foreign interference, especially in light of Moldova’s sensitive geopolitical position.
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