The second round of presidential elections in Moldova took place on November 3, 2024, with incumbent President Maia Sandu receiving approximately 55% of the votes. The pro-European ruling party, Action and Solidarity (PAS), celebrated the results at their headquarters in Chisinau's Digital Park, where supporters erupted in cheers of 'Victory' and 'Maia Sandu - President' as the results were announced.
Initially, former General Prosecutor Alexander Stoianoglo, backed by the pro-Russian Socialist Party (PSRM), led the vote count as ballots were tallied. However, the results shifted dramatically as the votes from the capital and the diaspora were counted, ultimately favoring Sandu.
According to the Central Election Commission, nearly 1.7 million voters participated, with a record turnout of 300,000 from the diaspora. The counting process began with votes from rural areas, where Stoianoglo gained early support, before the urban and diaspora votes turned the tide in favor of Sandu.
Political analyst Victor Chobanu noted that the Kremlin exerted significant pressure during the campaign, including threats against journalists and attempts to influence voter behavior through various provocations. Despite these challenges, Chobanu believes the outcome was anticipated, given the short timeframe for Stoianoglo's campaign to gain traction.
Chisinau political analyst Vitaly Andrievski expressed a more critical view of Sandu's victory, suggesting that pro-European forces faced considerable difficulties. He highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the influence of oligarchs and the lack of effective ideological engagement with voters.
Experts predict that the Kremlin will intensify its efforts in the upcoming parliamentary elections, scheduled for less than a year from now. Andrievski warned that the ruling PAS party has not effectively countered the Kremlin's propaganda campaign.
Security expert Andrei Curelaru emphasized that while the diaspora played a crucial role in Sandu's victory, the support for Stoianoglo within Moldova raises questions about the legitimacy of the opposition's voter base, particularly in the Transnistria region.
The election results reflect a divided society in Moldova, and experts urge the government to address the concerns of pro-European citizens who oppose Sandu. Without alternative pro-European parties, the ruling PAS may struggle to maintain voter support as public dissatisfaction grows.
Overall, Moldova's geopolitical orientation remains clear, favoring European integration, but experts warn that the PAS must develop genuine political alternatives free from external influence to succeed in future elections.