The Buiucani office of the Court of Chisinau on July 28 ordered to suspend the Mayor of Chisinau Dorin Chirtoaca until a definite judgment is passed in his case. The mayor is investigated for influence peddling and passive corruption in the case of pay parking lots, IPN reports.

Ater the hearing, prosecutor Victoria Furtuna said the Court’s decision is legal and the suspension was requested because the mayor is accused of committing very serious offenses. Moreover, there will be questioned witnesses who are in labor relations with Dorin Chirtoaca.

Dorin Chirtoaca said he was ready and expected such a decision because pressure on the part of the prosecution was felt a day ago. But his suspension wasn’t necessary given that he earlier announced he will not go to work until there is a definitive decision. It is important to get at the truth in this case and to clarify all the circumstances. The suspension decision will be challenged in the Appeals Court.

Under the legislation, the post of mayor is to be held by one of the deputy mayors on an interim basis. As Nistor Grozavu is now the only deputy mayor, he will take up from the mayor.

Lawyer Tatiana Iovu said a person cannot be suspended from an elective post by a court decision.