The Social-Democratic faction in the Chisinau Municipal Council and 12 Social-Democrat mayors from Orhei district announced they decided to defect from the PSD and join the Liberal Democratic Party of Moldova (PLDM), Info-Prim Neo reports. “We no longer identify ourselves with the statements and and actions taken by the party's administration,” said councilor Emil Gutu. “We feel marginalized as our potential is not developed inside the party.” A statement signed by eight members of the political bureau of the PSD's local organization in Chisinau was read during a news conference held on this occasion. The signatories call on their colleagues that remained in the PSD to follow their example. They said the have not yet joined the PLDM, but are sure they would be accepted. Asked why they leave Braghis in such difficult times for the PSD, the signatories said they have nothing against the party's leader. “While Dumitru Braghis had been Premier, he showed extraordinary qualities and ability to efficiently deal with periods of crisis. Unfortunately, now we are not heard and this made us want to leave.” Two weeks ago, 25 local organizations that included about 11,000 members of the PSD left the party and joined the Democratic Party.