Moldova claims Tighina protests are organized by Tiraspol

Moldovan Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration, Valeriu Chiveri, has claimed that recent protests in Tighina are not spontaneous demonstrations but are instead organized by authorities in Tiraspol. The protests were held against new taxes and excise duties applied by Chișinău to businesses operating on the left bank of the Dniester.

Chiveri argued that because the region is characterized by political repression and a lack of rights, it is unlikely that such manifestations were organized freely. He suggested that the de facto administration in Tiraspol is attempting to shift responsibility for regional economic issues onto the Moldovan government.

During the demonstrations on September 15, participants carried signs protesting against what they termed 'political genocide' and pressure on Transnistria. Legal expert Vadim Vieru of Promo-LEX also characterized the actions as 'unauthentic,' noting that residents who criticize the de facto administration often face persecution.