Observers say Gagauz elections were calm yet with irregularities

The ballot for the election of the Governor (Bashkan) on the Gagauz Autonomy proceeded in a calm atmosphere, but with numerous minor irregularities, according to the observers representing the Moldovan Legal Clinics Association, Info-Prim Neo reports. According to the Association's spokesperson Rima Placinta, the organization deployed 73 independent observers across the region. Irregularities included stamping of ballot papers in advance, transportation provided to voters by electoral contenders, more than one person in the voting booth at a time, election officers helping voters fill out their ballots or suggesting who to vote for, campaigning inside or in close vicinity of the polling stations, offering of alcoholic drinks to voters, etc. There were also several irregularities of logistical nature, for example, one polling station lacked power supply for half an hour, during which voting proceeded by candlelight or with mobile phone lighting. The Association's director Olga Straton said the organization is recommending the election authorities to remove the reported irregularities before the runoff ballot, which will take place in a fortnight. Preliminary results show incumbent Governor Mihail Formuzal (36.4%) and Nicolai Dudoglo (32.2%) as the most likely duelists in the runoff, with Irina Vlah following closely with 31.4% of the vote.