The Moldovans they arrive today at ballot boxes to elect their representatives on municipal authorities, after the country’s president accused Moscow of meddling in the elections while a pro-Russian party was excluded from the electoral battle.

The last nationwide election before a presidential election in November 2024 is being held as the former Soviet state tries to advance its bid to join the European Union and get out of Russia’s orbit.

THE pro-EU president Maia Sandu has denounced Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and accused Moscow of plotting to overthrow her in a coup. This week, he accused Russia of “buying off” voters by funneling $5 million over the past two months to “criminal organizations” led by businessman Ilan Shor.

The process to nominate 12,000 local officials involves dozens of parties, including Sandu’s ruling Action and Solidarity Party (PAS) and the pro-Russian Revival party linked to Shor, who has been convicted in absentia of fraud.

On Friday, the Evcareia party, also associated with Shor, was excluded from the process for security reasons.

The election will be a major test for Sandou’s trajectory — especially in small towns and villages — after her victory in 2020.

In a televised appearance on Friday night, Sandou asked citizens to go to the polls to support her pro-European bid. “Thanks to your vote, Moldova has a chance to become a member of the European family. Don’t let our villages fall into the hands of thieves,” he said.

Responding to Sandu’s comments this week, the Russian Foreign Ministry called it a “shame” and said the Moldovan president was trying to distract attention from her government’s failings.