Gagauzia elections: Candidates previously investigated for corruption permitted to run

The Central Electoral Commission (CEC) of Moldova has confirmed that several candidates in the upcoming Gagauzia elections were previously subjects of electoral corruption investigations. However, because these administrative procedures were not finalized, the individuals were permitted to run under the principle of the presumption of innocence. CEC President Angelica Caraman stated that the commission will closely monitor the electoral campaign and activity of these candidates.

Authorities are also investigating reports regarding potential influence from external networks on the regional vote. Meanwhile, Comrat-based expert Mihail Sirkeli noted that the high number of registered candidates suggests that equal conditions were provided to competitors and contradicts calls to boycott the election process.