In Gagauzia, Elena Gümüşlü, who serves as the Secretary of the Central Election Commission, confirmed that polling stations in the region have closed following the second round of the autonomous presidency election. The report comes from DEA News and highlights a calm voting process that culminated with all ballot boxes being secured at the close of polling hours.
Gümüşlü noted that the second round unfolded in a peaceful atmosphere, with observers and local officials monitoring the proceedings to ensure procedural integrity. She emphasized that every ballot was accounted for as the centralized tallying continued after the final ballots were submitted. The closure marks a pivotal moment in the autonomous governance race, reflecting the region’s adherence to established electoral norms and timeframes.
The contest features two prominent figures: a representative of the Shor party, Yevheniya Hutsul, and Grigory Uzun, a member of the People’s Assembly who runs with the backing of the Socialist Party. Both candidates have been active in advocating for their policy platforms and regional development plans, seeking broad support across diverse segments of the autonomous community.
Yana Kovalenko, who previously chaired the Central Election Commission of Gagauzia, commented on voter participation, noting that the turnout for the head of the Gagauz Autonomous Region race exceeded 35 percent. This figure indicates a significant engagement from residents who have a direct stake in the outcomes of the autonomous administration and its future direction.
Earlier reports discussed tensions between Moldovan authorities and the Gagauz Yeri election administration amid questions about campaign finance disclosures. The Moldovan CEC and the Ministry of Interior sought clarification from the Gagauz Yeri CEC regarding allegations of election irregularities. Investigators flagged that more than 11,500 one-time cash donations appeared in the financial reports of candidates running for the presidency of the autonomy, with the equivalent value in lei noted as roughly 645 dollars. This inquiry underscores the ongoing scrutiny over funding sources and the transparency of campaign financing in the autonomous region.
On May 14, the second round of the head of administration elections in Moldova’s Gagauz autonomy took place. Grigory Uzun, affiliated with the Socialist Party of the Republic of Moldova, faced Eugenia Gutsul, a candidate from the Shor party. Polling centers were scheduled to remain open until 21:00 local time, allowing residents to cast their ballots according to the established timetable for the autonomous territory. The electoral activities reflected the broader dynamics of regional politics, where questions about party influence, governance priorities, and community representation intersect with the practical realities of local administration and autonomy within Moldova.