Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Natalia Gherman took the third position in the rankings of the top 50 most influential politicians of Moldova, which are compiled monthly by the Institute for Analysis and Political Consultancy “Politicon”. It is for the first time that a Moldovan woman politician ranks so high. The rankings for August were presented in a news conference at IPN.
“Politicon” deputy head Ion Tabarta told the journalists that the top ten politicians preserved their places in August. Prime Minister Iurie Leanca comes first, while the chairman of the Liberal Democratic Party, former Premier Vlad Filat ranks second.
Natalia Gherman is followed by Head of Parliament Igor Corman, Minister of Education Maia Sandu, and Mayor of Chisinau municipality Dorin Chirtoaca. President Nicolae Timofti ranks seventh, while the leader of the Communist Party Vladimir Voronin comes eighth. Democratic MP Vlad Plahotniuc takes the ninth position, while Deputy Prime Minister Valeriu Lazar comes tenth, up two spots from the previous month.
“Politicon” head Anatol Taranu said that Prime Minister Iurie Leanca strengthened his position and his score shows that he does not risk being outrun by those coming behind. Vlad Filat ranks second because he was more active than other politicians the previous month. The fourth place for the Speaker is not appropriate, but he may join again the top three politicians when Parliament starts work according to the usual program.
As to the place occupied by Minister Maia Sandu, Anatol Taranu said she preservers a high position because she continues to be regarded as the greatest supporter of reformation. As to Dorin Chirtoaca, the expert said that the mayor loses positions because the Liberal Party, of which he is a member, faces problems.
According to Taranu, the place taken by President Nicolae Timofti is reasonable. Vladimir Voronin didn’t improve his rating because he wasn’t active in summer, while Vlad Plahotniuc remains among the most influential ten politicians because he has real influence without holding an important post.
The leader of the Democratic Party Marian Lupu ranked 15th, while the chairman of the Liberal Party Mihai Ghimpu – 18th. Anatol Taranu said that if the two politicians do not take measures to improve their ratings, they will slip further.
