In the second round of the presidential elections, Maia Sandu urged citizens to vote responsibly, warning about the risks to democracy and attacks on the integrity of the electoral process. Her opponent, Alexandr Stoianoglo, reiterated his commitment to European values and emphasized the importance of a victory for Moldova, while also criticizing the sitting president. These statements were made during Sunday’s electoral debate ahead of the second round of voting, scheduled for November 3, as reported by IPN.
Alexandr Stoianoglo, the Socialist Party candidate for president, stated that he has long adopted the model of European integration as a system of values, and is prepared to respect the rule of law, uphold justice, impartiality, and serve the interests of the majority. "I have nothing to add, except for one thing – it’s time for Moldova to win. We are all interested in this," Stoianoglo said.
He further mentioned that four years ago, when Maia Sandu won the presidency, he sincerely believed she had good intentions. "I truly believed that you wanted to change something in the country, but, unfortunately, you failed. As a citizen, I understand you, because being president is not just about rights but also responsibilities. You didn’t manage it, and I don’t want to accuse you of that because it’s something that happens to everyone. You shouldn’t be ashamed or afraid. But you must recognize your mistakes," said the PSRM candidate.
"That’s why let’s run this campaign honestly, let’s maintain peace in our society, let’s do everything so that, regardless of who is elected president, people will remember us in a good light," Stoianoglo added.
In response, Maia Sandu stated that there is evidence and testimony that the whole country has seen. "Moldova is a small country, and such a large-scale theft cannot be hidden. People are talking everywhere, and only Mr. Stoianoglo hasn’t seen it. There are many things Mr. Stoianoglo doesn’t know. He doesn’t know what was in the bag Plahotniuc gave to Dodon, he doesn’t know which law Platon violated in the money laundering case, and he doesn’t know whether votes were bought in these elections and for whom," said the PAS candidate.
Maia Sandu addressed all citizens who have answers to these questions. "The upcoming elections are about how each of us will live, about our families, about our country. My proposal to you is to allow me to continue maintaining peace, bringing funds for development, and to continue our European path together, to continue the development projects and the fight for a true rule of law, as written in the Constitution," stated Maia Sandu.
The president also said that the Republic of Moldova has a real chance to become part of Europe, a historic opportunity that some people strongly dislike. But the decision is not theirs; it belongs to the Moldovan people. Honest people should live well at home. And Maia Sandu expressed her full confidence in the wisdom and decision of the people.
