The United States urges the Moldovan authorities to take all necessary measures to ensure a free and fair electoral process ahead of the February 24 parliamentary elections and a transparent outcome that respects the will of Moldovan voters, IPN reports.

“We encourage the government to implement OSCE’s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) prior recommendations for Moldova that remain outstanding. Local and national authorities should ensure that
candidates are able to register to participate in the elections and carry out their campaigns without fear of harassment or physical harm,” the U.S. Department of State says in a press release.

Also, media outlets should provide equal access to all candidates and approach their coverage in a fair, balanced, and impartial manner, consistent with Moldova’s media laws. “Ultimately, we believe, the goal of all the parties and candidates is the same, ensuring a prosperous and democratic future for Moldova and its citizens. The United States will continue to help the Moldovan people achieve this goal,” runs the press release.

On February 24, 2019, Moldova will hold parliamentary elections based on the mixed electoral system and simultaneously a consultative referendum.