Moldova’s PM Steps Down as Pro-EU Government Forms

Moldova’s Prime Minister Dorin Recean announced on Monday he will not lead the next government. This decision follows a decisive victory by his pro-EU ruling party in last month’s parliamentary elections.

The Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) secured 50.20 per cent of the vote on September 28. This win solidifies the ex-Soviet nation’s path toward European Union membership.

Recean stated he will remain as head of government until a new cabinet forms. After that, he plans to exit public and political life entirely. He accepted the leadership role in February 2023 to strengthen Moldova’s institutions during a turbulent period.

A New Political Chapter for Moldova

“Now that we have a new parliament, a new pro-European majority of PAS, we need to move on to another stage,” Recean explained. His departure marks a significant transition for the country’s leadership.

As detailed in the complete version, there are several key factors to consider.

President Maia Sandu thanked Recean for his service in a Facebook post. She described him as “the most suitable person to lead the government and guide state institutions through multiple crises with dignity.” Sandu is expected to nominate a new prime minister following consultations.

Election Outcome and Future Government

The PAS party now holds 55 seats in the 101-seat parliament. This majority allows it to form a new pro-EU government independently. The election was seen as crucial for the future of the small country bordering Ukraine.

The vote was marred by widespread allegations of Russian interference, which Moscow denies. Moldova’s constitutional court is set to meet on Thursday to validate the contested ballot results. The pro-Russian opposition, which garnered 24.18 per cent of the vote, has challenged the outcome.

In a recent interview, Recean highlighted his government’s key achievements. These include starting Moldova’s EU accession process, reducing energy dependency on Russia, and increasing salaries and pensions. Significant infrastructure investments were also a central part of his tenure, reinforcing the nation’s pro-EU trajectory.