After fourteen failed attempts, Halk Topluşu, or the People’s Assembly of the Gagauz autonomy, has finally succeeded in electing its Başı, or chairperson.

Dmitry Konstantinov received 18 votes out of 35 in a secret ballot. The remaining 17 ballots were left untouched.

The new Başı thanked his colleagues for their trust, adding that he understands the great responsibility that comes with the job.

Konstantinov had held the post previously, from 2012 to 2015.

Elected last September, the current Gagauz legislature is composed of 25 independents, 9 Communists-Socialists, and 1 PACE member.