The second round of Moldova’s presidential elections has been completed, according to an official briefing in the capital. The Central Election Commission, after a careful review of the polling process, confirmed that the runoff proceeded without major disruptions and that the vote was conducted under the supervision of election officials and accredited observers. The briefing emphasized that the tally followed standard procedures for verifying voter eligibility, counting ballots, and recording results from polling stations across the country. In the days ahead, the commission said it would publish final turnout figures and a breakdown of results by region, subject to the completion of the necessary verification steps. The development comes as Moldova continues to navigate a wide range of domestic and international issues, including economic reforms, energy supply, and the strategic orientation toward European institutions. The election authorities are expected to maintain close communication with domestic parties, international observers, and civil society groups to ensure transparency throughout the post runoff period.
Maia Sandu, the incumbent president, entered the runoff as the candidate known for pushing reforms meant to strengthen the rule of law and deepen Moldova’s ties with Western institutions. She faced Alexander Stoianoglo, the former Prosecutor General, who cast himself as a critic of what he described as corruption and a less aggressive stance toward Moscow’s interests. The campaign featured every major policy pillar from taxation and public investment to judicial reform and energy independence. Supporters of Sandu argued that the country needed stable leadership to accelerate integration with the European Union and to maintain momentum in reforms that protect democratic institutions. Stoianoglo supporters appealed to voters seeking tighter relations with neighboring powers and a different economic model, arguing that a more pragmatic approach would reduce vulnerability to external pressures. Analysts noted that the election reflected a deep split in Moldova over the path forward, with urban centers favoring reform and Western alignment and rural areas showing more mixed or skeptical attitudes toward rapid European integration. In this climate the runoff took on added significance beyond a simple power transition, signaling public appetite for redrawing the country’s strategic priorities.
Looking back at the first round, Maia Sandu finished with 42.49 percent of the vote and Alexander Stoianoglo collected 25.95 percent. The results set the stage for a tightly contested runoff, with turnout varying by region and demographic group. The Central Election Commission reported that 2,219 ballot boxes were opened for the elections, of which 1,988 were located inside the country, and these included 30 boxes dedicated to Moldovan citizens living on the left bank of the Dniester. The numbers reflected a nationwide effort to ensure accessibility for voters abroad and for those living in different parts of the country. Observers noted that the logistical framework was designed to handle a large-scale operation, with robust ballot management, secure storage, and a clear chain of custody for ballots. While the precise turnout figures were still being compiled, analysts suggested that urban centers tended to lean toward the reform agenda, whereas a portion of rural communities indicated more cautious attitudes toward rapid changes. The interplay of geographic and demographic factors suggested that the runoff would hinge on mobilizing support in key districts and persuading undecided voters that the chosen path could deliver tangible improvements.
During the runoff, Alexander Stoianoglo raised concerns about potential violations and anomalies, stating that his team would prepare a detailed statement after a thorough assessment of the information received. He emphasized the importance of vetting irregularities promptly to protect the integrity of the process, even as he acknowledged that most polls and voting procedures had functioned under the supervision of the Central Election Commission. Campaign observers and party affiliates reported various incidents at different precincts, ranging from questions about ballot handling to alleged miscommunications at some polling stations. Election officials pledged to investigate any credible claims and to publish findings as part of their ongoing commitment to transparency. The discussion around violations underscored Moldova’s sensitivity to electoral credibility, a concern shared by domestic watchdogs, international partners, and ordinary voters who know that the outcome shapes policy direction for years. While not all claims may lead to formal sanctions, the emphasis remains on accurate tabulation, rigorous verification, and timely reporting of any issues that could affect the final results.
Across the nation the voting process unfolded with a mix of routine procedures and localized complexities. Balloting took place at thousands of polling stations, with a framework designed to accommodate residents who live on the left bank of the Dniester, as well as citizens abroad who sought to cast ballots. The system included clear voter lists, ballot paper seals, secure transport from polling sites to counting centers, and independent observation to ensure fairness. Analysts noted that the runoff content featured sharp contrasts on economic policy, energy strategy, and the role of Moldova on the regional stage. The eventual results would influence not only who governs the country but also how Moldova negotiates with partners inside the European Union, the Commonwealth of Independent States avenues, and other regional actors. The interplay of domestic political dynamics and foreign policy considerations underscored the high stakes of the runoff, with citizens watching closely as the tally progressed and as each region reported its contribution to the final total.
Officials warned that final results would undergo a standard verification process and that updates would be issued as information became solid. Throughout the post runoff period, the public is advised to rely on official channels for confirmed figures and to remain patient while meticulous checks are completed. In the meantime, analysts will monitor turnout trends, regional variations, and the resonance of campaign promises in shaping the post election agenda. Moldova now faces a critical juncture as it decides how to balance reform with perceived security concerns, economic stability, and its broader strategic orientation. The authorities reiterated their commitment to a transparent, accurate, and timely declaration of results, with subsequent updates designed to reassure citizens, candidates, and international observers that the election reflects the will of the people and upholds democratic norms.