Moldovan election results confirmed, Maia Sandu re-elected as president

The Constitutional Court of Moldova has officially confirmed the results of the presidential election, which saw incumbent Maia Sandu re-elected for a second term.

The decision was announced by the Court's Chairperson, Domnica Manole, following a session on the matter, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media. 

"The results of the presidential election in the Republic of Moldova, held on November 3, 2024, are hereby confirmed. Maia Sandu's election as President of the Republic of Moldova is upheld. This decision is final, non-appealable, and takes effect immediately," Manole stated.

According to the Central Election Commission, Sandu secured 55.33% of the vote in the second round of elections, defeating opposition candidate Alexandr Stoianoglo. However, Stoianoglo received 51% of the vote within Moldova itself. Sandu's victory was largely attributed to the substantial support from Moldovan migrant workers, with over 300,000 ballots cast abroad at more than 200 polling stations set up across EU countries.

The opposition Socialist Party of the Republic of Moldova, which backed Stoianoglo, has accused Sandu of lacking legitimacy as President. The Central Election Commission received numerous complaints regarding alleged electoral violations, including abuse of administrative resources and organized voter transport. However, these complaints were dismissed.

In the lead-up to the elections, 14 television channels accused of threatening national security were shut down for providing a platform to the opposition. Several opposition leaders are also facing criminal charges.

Moldovan presidents serve a four-year term and assume office immediately upon taking the oath of office. Moldova is a parliamentary republic, with the president's powers being limited.

The president represents the country internationally, guarantees its sovereignty and independence, acts as the supreme commander of the armed forces, nominates the prime minister, appoints judges, and approves laws passed by parliament. 

However, the president's authority is often exercised in coordination with other branches of government. Under Moldovan law, an individual cannot serve more than two consecutive presidential terms.

By Aghakazim Guliyev