Moldova's Presidential Race: 11 Candidates Approved Amid EU Membership Tensions

Moldova's upcoming presidential election on October 20 will see 11 candidates, including incumbent Maia Sandu, who seeks EU membership. The election coincides with a referendum on constitutional changes for EU entry. Pro-Russian opposition challenges Sandu, accusing her of leveraging the vote for re-election.

Moldova's electoral officials announced the approval of a record 11 candidates for the upcoming presidential poll next month. Among them is the incumbent, Maia Sandu, who is campaigning on a platform to join the European Union. Sandu faces significant competition from ten challengers, including dismissed Attorney General Alexander Stoianoglo, backed by pro-Russian opposition parties, and Renato Usatii, who advocates for balanced relations with both the West and Moscow.

The election, set for October 20, will occur alongside a referendum asking voters if they support constitutional changes to facilitate Moldova's entry into the EU. This has fueled debates, with opposition Socialists accusing Sandu of using the referendum as a strategy to secure a second term. Two out of the 15 parties engaging in the referendum oppose the pro-European agenda, arguing for revitalizing ties with Russia, which have strained due to Sandu's stance on the Ukraine conflict and allegations against the Kremlin.

Polls show Sandu leading with 26.8% support, trailed by Usatii and Stoianoglo. Support for EU membership stands at 56% among decided voters. Other candidates include former prime ministers and a notable journalist, though they lag behind the frontrunners.

(With inputs from agencies.)