Moldovan president refuses to participate in parliamentary polls

Chisinau, 21 January /MOLDPRES/ - President Igor Dodon has refused to participate as candidate in the parliamentary elections due on 24 February 2019. The head of state made statements to this effect at a news briefing today.  

„The people has entrusted me the mandate of the country’s president and I am obliged to fulfill this duty, without reducing my office duties. I will not put up my candidacy at the parliamentary polls, as I will focus my attention on the domestic and external activities for the country’s development. I will also do not take part in the electoral campaign and will not aspire to the office of MP. At the same time, I inform that I will back the Party of Socialists from Moldova, as it is the only party capable to make changes and govern competently and responsibly,” Igor Dodon said.      

The head of state also urged the participants in the elections to carry out a fair electoral campaign. “The ballot must take place in line with the international standards and the citizens’ wish should be observed. The polls must be legitimate and this should be monitored by international observers. I urge the citizens to actively participate in the voting, in order to change things in Moldova,” Dodon noted.    

The parliamentary polls due on 24 February will be held according to a mixed electoral system; the MPs are to be elected both on party lists and in uninominal districts. Also, on the election day, a consultative referendum will be conducted on cutting the number of lawmakers from 101 to 61 and MPs’ recalling from office, if they fail to properly fulfill their duties.