Moldova CEC disqualifies mayoral candidate in Chirsova

The Central Electoral Commission (CEC) of Moldova has annulled the registration of Serghei Sapunji, an independent candidate for the mayoral position in Chirsova, located in the Gagauzia autonomous region. The decision was made following findings that Sapunji provided material advantages to a voter during his campaign.

Investigations revealed that Sapunji purchased and delivered approximately 5.3 tons of crushed stone, valued at 4,000 lei, to a local resident's household. The CEC determined that providing such material benefits violates the electoral code, which prohibits offering goods or other advantages to influence voter choice. While a local electoral council had initially issued only a warning, the CEC overturned that decision, stating the sanction did not match the gravity of the violation and mandated the cancellation of his candidacy.