Moldovan Premier Tofan backs ex‑agriculture minister Musteața after resignation

Radu Musteața resigned as Moldova’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry after a scandal revealed his past affiliation with the former Democratic Party and a misleading statement about it. Premier Vasile Tofan described the resignation as a "stupid mistake," praised Musteața’s managerial record – notably the cleanup of the National Agency for Food Safety (ANSA) – and said he would like the former minister to remain in public service.

Tofan also said the government will not rush the appointment of a new agriculture minister, stressing the sector’s complexity and the need for a thorough selection. He mentioned that candidates such as State Secretary Vasile Șarban have been proposed by agro‑food associations, but the final decision will follow careful consultations.

Musteața’s tenure was linked to improvements in Moldova’s access to EU markets for poultry and eggs, and the premier highlighted these achievements while acknowledging the political fallout of the resignation.