Moldova ahead of election: partnership with Russia or European integration

Moldova's presidential election goes to second round, as none of the presidential candidates secured majority of votes – 50% plus one vote.

Candidate for president Igor Dodon who advocates for restoration of the strategic partnership with Russia says he will win the second round.

“We are sure of our victory. The leader of the opposition represented by socialists enjoys public support and received half of the votes,” Dodon said.

The pro-European candidate Maia Sandu, in turn, called her voters for consolidation ahead of the second round of election. “High turnout showed that people want changes and we must listen to that signal. I urge you to show activity in the second round,” Ms. Sandu said.

Nine candidates run for president. Sandu and Dodon are the favorites. Their closest rival representing Our Party, Dmitri Chubashenko received a little more than 6%, and leader of the European People’s Party Yuri Lianke received 3.12%. The remaining candidates received less than 2% of votes. The Central Electoral Commission is to announce the final outcomes within five days. The second round will be held in two weeks.