2008 was more difficult than 2007 in every respect. Info-Prim Neo interview with Iurie Pojoga, member of the Moldovan Centrist Union’s Political Council

[- How was the political year 2008 for Moldova and what are your forecasts for 2009?] - In every respect, 2008 was a more complicated year for Moldova than 2007. Politically, the situation started to change on September 27, when Vasile Tarlev decided to enter Moldovan politics. This event has confused the political games of many. The current political elite have jealous reactions to any new intervention which can radically shift the position of parties on the political landscape. Knowing that most of the citizens are disappointed and confused by the implemented policies, there is an obvious necessity to change things, to find a new, competent force which would be able to effect these changes. This force came with a new leader, a new team, new visions and proposals. Of course I mean the Moldovan Centrist Union and its new leader Vasile Tarlev. Speaking about the prospects of 2009 in politics, you shouldn’t believe the so-called opinion polls because most of them are fabricated at someone’s order. We should not try to behave as magicians or astrologists – in 2009 it is his Majesty the Voter who will decide who is worthy of governing the country and only God knows the results of their decision. I believe that the results of the parliamentary elections will be a great surprise for most of the parties and political leaders. [- 2008 ends eight years of Communist government and two consecutive terms of office of President Vladimir Voronin. What are the distinctive features of this period?] - First of all, 2008 also concludes 8 years of Parliament’s legislative manipulation. We should not forget that each of the three branches of power had its function and influence in this period. The current parliament has restricted its activity to the creation and amendment of the legislation as well as the election of the President, while the latter controlled the political events, especially concerning foreign affairs. What was left for the Government was the task of organizing, executing and implementing the country’s economic program. Therefore, the merits of the economic results of the 7-year period belong to the Government appointed by the Communists Party and headed by Prime-Minister Vasile Tarlev, who had no political affiliation with any party. The construction of the Giurgulesti terminal, connecting villages to gas pipe-lines, renovation of roads, payment of pensions and salaries – these are just some of the results of the state manager Vasile Tarlev. In my opinion, it is very important to be objective and judge the people according to their merits. [- What does your party intend to obtain in the 2009 legislative elections and what effects will the elections have on Moldova?] - The Moldovan Centrist Union is capable of and will obtain good results in the 2009 parliamentary elections. We have everything we need in order to meet the expectations of the disappointed electorate, who is now protesting against poverty, small salaries and pensions, high prices, corruption, unemployment etc. If our society really wants changes, it will obtain them, if not, everything will stay the same and the consequences can be even more serious. I hope that in the year of Moldova, the year of the ox (editor's note – the bull is one of Moldova's symbols; e.g., the coat of arms of the Republic of Moldova depicts the head of a bull), our people will have a better life. Happy new year!