The Chisinau City Council met today to analyze its September 15 decision to increase fees for water consumption and public transportation, as well as to take away the right of retirees to use public transportation for free. The meeting was called after hundreds of elderly protesters have been gathering in downtown Chisinau for two days in a row to protest against the decision.
Some of the elderly men and women who were still in front of Chisinau City Hall when the decision was announced said they would protest tomorrow, as well.
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Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Retirees gather in downtown Chisinau again to protest City Council decision to hike fees, block traffic downtown
A few hundred retirees gathered in front of Chisinau City Hall today to protest against the City Council's decision on September 15 to increase fees for water consumption and public transportation, and to take away the right of pensioneers to use public transportation for free.
The demonstrators blocked traffic in downtown Chisinau and asked for their public transportation privileges to be returned. Chisinau mayor Dorin Chirtoaca, who was assaulted by protesters yesterday (see an Imedia report about how events unfolded yesterday here), said that retiress would get an additional subsidy of 70 lei (about seven U.S. dollars) for transportation, which did not go over well with the crowd.
On the other hand, protesters today were also greeted by Mr. Chirtoaca's supporters, some of whom were retirees from outside of Chisinau who complained that Chisinau elderly residents were asking for too many privileges. Media outlets have also shown elderly men and women fight about whether they should speak Russian or Romanian during the protests, and many protesters were accused of supporting the Party of Communists, which recently lost legislative elections.
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The demonstrators blocked traffic in downtown Chisinau and asked for their public transportation privileges to be returned. Chisinau mayor Dorin Chirtoaca, who was assaulted by protesters yesterday (see an Imedia report about how events unfolded yesterday here), said that retiress would get an additional subsidy of 70 lei (about seven U.S. dollars) for transportation, which did not go over well with the crowd.
On the other hand, protesters today were also greeted by Mr. Chirtoaca's supporters, some of whom were retirees from outside of Chisinau who complained that Chisinau elderly residents were asking for too many privileges. Media outlets have also shown elderly men and women fight about whether they should speak Russian or Romanian during the protests, and many protesters were accused of supporting the Party of Communists, which recently lost legislative elections.
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Mass media NGOs ask new Government to reform media landscape in Moldova and ensure freedom of expression in the country
Leading mass media non-governmental organizations recently sent a letter of requests and recommendations to the legislative committee on culture, education, research, sports, and mass media and to Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu.
The letter includes five recommendations: reforming the public television and radio stations, which have often been accused of being pro-Communist; reforming the Broadcasting Coordinating Council, which releases and withdraws broadcasting licenses in the country and has in the past been accused of favoring pro-Communist media outlets; reducing state involvement in the mass media; stimulating the development of an independent press; and implementing legislative reform.
Ties between independent media outlets and the former Communist Government (2001-2009) have often been hostile. Officials restricted access to information and favored the pro-Governmental press. In addition, independent journalists have often been persecuted, especially after the mass protests on April 6 and 7. The new Government has pledged to improve this situation.
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The letter includes five recommendations: reforming the public television and radio stations, which have often been accused of being pro-Communist; reforming the Broadcasting Coordinating Council, which releases and withdraws broadcasting licenses in the country and has in the past been accused of favoring pro-Communist media outlets; reducing state involvement in the mass media; stimulating the development of an independent press; and implementing legislative reform.
Ties between independent media outlets and the former Communist Government (2001-2009) have often been hostile. Officials restricted access to information and favored the pro-Governmental press. In addition, independent journalists have often been persecuted, especially after the mass protests on April 6 and 7. The new Government has pledged to improve this situation.
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Russian President Dmitri Medvedev and Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko to attend CIS summit in Chisinau on October 8-9
Russian President Dmitri Medvedev and Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko will most likely attend the Commonwealth of Independent Countries summit in Chisinau between October 8 and 9.
Mr. Yushchenko recently told the press he will meet with his Russian counterpart in the Moldovan capital. The meeting is yet to be confirmed by Moscow.
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Mr. Yushchenko recently told the press he will meet with his Russian counterpart in the Moldovan capital. The meeting is yet to be confirmed by Moscow.
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Russian P.M. Vladimir Putin congratulates Moldovan P.M. Vlad Filat on his appointment
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin recently sent a telegram to his Moldovan counterpart, whom he congratulated on his recent appointment.
The telegram says that "Moldovan-Russian ties are based on traditions of friendship and mutual respect. I am convinced that their multilateral evolution corresponds to the rooted interests of the peoples of our countries."
The new ruling Alliance for European Integration is more pro-Western than the previous Communist-run Government (2001-2009), which has caused some recent tension with Russian authorities. The Alliance has said, however, that it seeks good ties with the Kremlin.
The telegram says that "Moldovan-Russian ties are based on traditions of friendship and mutual respect. I am convinced that their multilateral evolution corresponds to the rooted interests of the peoples of our countries."
The new ruling Alliance for European Integration is more pro-Western than the previous Communist-run Government (2001-2009), which has caused some recent tension with Russian authorities. The Alliance has said, however, that it seeks good ties with the Kremlin.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Prime Minister Vlad Filat in Brussels for talks with European officials
Prime Minister Vlad Filat and Foreign Affairs Minister Iurie Leanca are in Brussels today for talks with European Union officials.
Mr. Filat said he would speak in his native Romanian, in large part because many of the European Parliament M.P.s with whom he talked are from Romania. Mr. Filat also noted that he hopes Romanian will replace Moldovan as the official language in the country.
The name of the language spoken in Moldova has been a controversial topic since the country's independence. The Constitution says that the official language is "Moldovan with Latin script," but most have acknowledged that Romanian and Moldovan are indistinguishable from one another. Communist M.P. Grigore Petrenco admitted this recently, but said that Moldovans have the right to call their language whatever they want. The Party of Communists is normally very supportive of keeping the name "Moldovan," while most of the Alliance for European Integration M.P.s call it "Romanian."
The premier started his conversation with European Parliament M.P.s by saying that Moldova had been run by "Soviet militia general" Vladimir Voronin for eight years, during which time about one million Moldovans left the country. He then went on to answer questions about the freedom of the press, the resolution of the Transnistrian crisis, the Eastern Partnership, and other topics. Most of the European M.P.s who spoke said the European Union should do more to help Moldova.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration is expected to have better ties with the European Union than the Party of Communists did. The coalition's main priority is European integration, and most of its M.P.s and cabinet members are well-known for being pro-Western.
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Mr. Filat said he would speak in his native Romanian, in large part because many of the European Parliament M.P.s with whom he talked are from Romania. Mr. Filat also noted that he hopes Romanian will replace Moldovan as the official language in the country.
The name of the language spoken in Moldova has been a controversial topic since the country's independence. The Constitution says that the official language is "Moldovan with Latin script," but most have acknowledged that Romanian and Moldovan are indistinguishable from one another. Communist M.P. Grigore Petrenco admitted this recently, but said that Moldovans have the right to call their language whatever they want. The Party of Communists is normally very supportive of keeping the name "Moldovan," while most of the Alliance for European Integration M.P.s call it "Romanian."
The premier started his conversation with European Parliament M.P.s by saying that Moldova had been run by "Soviet militia general" Vladimir Voronin for eight years, during which time about one million Moldovans left the country. He then went on to answer questions about the freedom of the press, the resolution of the Transnistrian crisis, the Eastern Partnership, and other topics. Most of the European M.P.s who spoke said the European Union should do more to help Moldova.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration is expected to have better ties with the European Union than the Party of Communists did. The coalition's main priority is European integration, and most of its M.P.s and cabinet members are well-known for being pro-Western.
h/t www.unimedia.md
A few hundred retirees protest Chisinau City Council decision to increase fees for water and public transportation, assault mayor Dorin Chirtoaca
About 500 old men and women gathered in front of Chisinau City Hall today to protest the City Council's decision to increase fees for water consumption and public transportation. Retirees also cannot use public transportation for free anymore.
The protesters blocked traffic on Chisinau's main street for a few hours. At one point, mayor Dorin Chirtoaca stepped out to speak with the crowd, but was assaulted by some of the protesters. Mr. Chirtoaca was punched by someone in the crowd and later had to withdraw into the city hall building. City counsellor Oleg Cernei was also pushed and shoved.
Maia Laguta, head of the Salvgardare Association and one of the organizers of the protests, demanded that the City Council decisions be cancelled and threatened that if her requests weren't fulfilled she would organize protests every day until they were.
Mr. Chirtoaca met with Ms. Laguta, after which protests were ceased for the day. Mr. Chirtoaca accused Ms. Laguta of staging a political rally since she said the City Council's decision to up fees was an attempt to punish Communist voters. Most elderly people vote for the Party of Communists.
After talks, mayor Chirtoaca decided to call an urgent City Council meeting on September 30 to reanalyze the decisions. A few hours ago, Chisinau City Hall also released a press statement saying it would increase subsidies for retirees, people with disabilities, and the unemployed.
The press release added, however, that the Chisinau city budget is overwhelmed by social welfare demands since more than 100,000 people can use public transportation for free.
In a related story, Unimedia posted a hidden-camera recording by journalist Petru Terguta in which one of the protesters says that the demonstration was organized by a Communist M.P. whose name is Ereomenco. The woman may be referring to Vladimir Eremciuc. Whatever the case may be, the protest seems to have taken on a political nature as some of the retirees carried Communist banners and said times were better when the Communist Party was in power.
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.stireazilei.md
www.jurnal.md
The protesters blocked traffic on Chisinau's main street for a few hours. At one point, mayor Dorin Chirtoaca stepped out to speak with the crowd, but was assaulted by some of the protesters. Mr. Chirtoaca was punched by someone in the crowd and later had to withdraw into the city hall building. City counsellor Oleg Cernei was also pushed and shoved.
Maia Laguta, head of the Salvgardare Association and one of the organizers of the protests, demanded that the City Council decisions be cancelled and threatened that if her requests weren't fulfilled she would organize protests every day until they were.
Mr. Chirtoaca met with Ms. Laguta, after which protests were ceased for the day. Mr. Chirtoaca accused Ms. Laguta of staging a political rally since she said the City Council's decision to up fees was an attempt to punish Communist voters. Most elderly people vote for the Party of Communists.
After talks, mayor Chirtoaca decided to call an urgent City Council meeting on September 30 to reanalyze the decisions. A few hours ago, Chisinau City Hall also released a press statement saying it would increase subsidies for retirees, people with disabilities, and the unemployed.
The press release added, however, that the Chisinau city budget is overwhelmed by social welfare demands since more than 100,000 people can use public transportation for free.
In a related story, Unimedia posted a hidden-camera recording by journalist Petru Terguta in which one of the protesters says that the demonstration was organized by a Communist M.P. whose name is Ereomenco. The woman may be referring to Vladimir Eremciuc. Whatever the case may be, the protest seems to have taken on a political nature as some of the retirees carried Communist banners and said times were better when the Communist Party was in power.
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.stireazilei.md
www.jurnal.md
Monday, September 28, 2009
Two extra-parliamentary liberal parties hail formation of new Government
The Actiunea Europeana [European Action] Movement (AEM) and the National Liberal Party (NLP), two pro-Western liberal parties that failed to win seats on April 5 (when they ran on a single AEM list) and on July 29 (when they withdrew from the race before election day) recently hailed the formation of the new Alliance for European Integration Government.
The two parties, which were very visible during the electoral campaign, expressed their hope that Moldova would become a more pro-European country, and that the Party of Communists would vote for a presidential candidate and thusly avoid early elections.
This announcement is important because thus far the ruling Alliance has received very little criticism from the right, and it is unlikely that there will be a strong pro-Western party or group that will become vocally opposed to the new cabinet. As a result, there is seeming consensus going all the way from the center-right to the right that the new Alliance holds some promise for Moldova. Most of the criticism will, thusly, come from the Party of Communists and other smaller Social Democratic parties. The latter have until now actually refrained from criticism.
h/t www.jurnal.md
The two parties, which were very visible during the electoral campaign, expressed their hope that Moldova would become a more pro-European country, and that the Party of Communists would vote for a presidential candidate and thusly avoid early elections.
This announcement is important because thus far the ruling Alliance has received very little criticism from the right, and it is unlikely that there will be a strong pro-Western party or group that will become vocally opposed to the new cabinet. As a result, there is seeming consensus going all the way from the center-right to the right that the new Alliance holds some promise for Moldova. Most of the criticism will, thusly, come from the Party of Communists and other smaller Social Democratic parties. The latter have until now actually refrained from criticism.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Moldova could get 262 million U.S. dollars from the Millennium Challenge Corporation
Moldova could receive 262 million U.S. dollars from the U.S.-run Millennium Challenge Corporation's Compact Program.
The money would be used for fixing up roads and for irrigation systems across the country, said U.S. Ambassador to Moldova Asif Chaudhry.
Prime Minister Vlad Filat expressed his hope that an agreement in this regard will be signed by the end of 2009.
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The money would be used for fixing up roads and for irrigation systems across the country, said U.S. Ambassador to Moldova Asif Chaudhry.
Prime Minister Vlad Filat expressed his hope that an agreement in this regard will be signed by the end of 2009.
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Communist M.P.: We would be willing to talk about voting for a President if the Alliance initiates a dialogue
Communist M.P. Victor Stepaniuc told the press that the Party of Communists would be willing to discuss voting for a President if the ruling Alliance for European Integration (AEI) initiates a dialogue on this topic.
"We could vote if this AEI candidate came to us to talk about our conditions. For now, we only know about one candidate - Marian Lupu - but he has not yet come to talk to us. The Alliance has not come to us with dialogue, either, and we don't even know who in the Alliance we need to talk to," Mr. Stepaniuc said.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration, which holds 53 seats in the legislature, needs eight more votes in order to be able to elect its own presidential candidate. Those votes can only come from the Party of Communists, which has sent mixed signals about its willingness to vote for a head of state. If the Alliance and the Communists fail to reach a compromise, Moldova may have early parliamentary elections again in 2010.
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"We could vote if this AEI candidate came to us to talk about our conditions. For now, we only know about one candidate - Marian Lupu - but he has not yet come to talk to us. The Alliance has not come to us with dialogue, either, and we don't even know who in the Alliance we need to talk to," Mr. Stepaniuc said.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration, which holds 53 seats in the legislature, needs eight more votes in order to be able to elect its own presidential candidate. Those votes can only come from the Party of Communists, which has sent mixed signals about its willingness to vote for a head of state. If the Alliance and the Communists fail to reach a compromise, Moldova may have early parliamentary elections again in 2010.
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14th case of A(H1N1) registered in Moldova
Moldovan authorities registered the 14th case of A(H1N1) infection in Moldova. The patient is a young woman who recently returned from a trip to Bulgaria.
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E.U. Representative in Moldova: Communists should find a way to vote for a President
The European Union's Representative in Moldova Kalman Mizsei recently told ProTV that the Party of Communists should try to reach an agreement with the ruling Alliance for European Integration about the election of a President.
The ruling coalition has 53 seats in the new Parliament, while the Communists hold 48. The President can be elected with 61 votes, which means the two opposing sides in the legislature need to find a compromise solution if they want to avoid early elections again.
After April 5, the Party of Communists won 60 seats in the legislature, but failed to convince at least one opposition M.P. to vote for its presidential candidate. Early elections were, as a result, organized on July 29.
The Party of Communists (PC) has sent mixed signals about its willingness to vote for an Alliance candidate. On the one hand, PC head and former Moldovan President (2001-2009) Vladimir Voronin said his party would be willing to negotiate with the Alliance if it fulfilled two conditions (about preserving the level of social welfare currently provided by the state and maintaining the country's military neutrality).
On the other hand, Mr. Voronin stressed that he would not vote for a "traitor" and a "leach," which is a reference to the Alliance's probably presidential candidate Marian Lupu. Mr. Lupu was Speaker between 2005 and 2009, but left the Party of Communists after the April 5 elections amid rumors that he felt betrayed by his party for not being nominated for President. The PC nominated then-Prime Minister Zinaida Greceanii instead.
h/t www.unimedia.md
The ruling coalition has 53 seats in the new Parliament, while the Communists hold 48. The President can be elected with 61 votes, which means the two opposing sides in the legislature need to find a compromise solution if they want to avoid early elections again.
After April 5, the Party of Communists won 60 seats in the legislature, but failed to convince at least one opposition M.P. to vote for its presidential candidate. Early elections were, as a result, organized on July 29.
The Party of Communists (PC) has sent mixed signals about its willingness to vote for an Alliance candidate. On the one hand, PC head and former Moldovan President (2001-2009) Vladimir Voronin said his party would be willing to negotiate with the Alliance if it fulfilled two conditions (about preserving the level of social welfare currently provided by the state and maintaining the country's military neutrality).
On the other hand, Mr. Voronin stressed that he would not vote for a "traitor" and a "leach," which is a reference to the Alliance's probably presidential candidate Marian Lupu. Mr. Lupu was Speaker between 2005 and 2009, but left the Party of Communists after the April 5 elections amid rumors that he felt betrayed by his party for not being nominated for President. The PC nominated then-Prime Minister Zinaida Greceanii instead.
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Interior Minister attends Chisinau mayoral meeting, promises better ties
Moldovan Interior Minister Victor Catan attended a meeting called by Chisinau mayor Dorin Chirtoaca today. Mr. Catan promised that he will attempt to improve ties with city hall.
The Communist-headed security forces had been in a state of permanent conflict with Chisinau authorities until recently, especially after Mr. Chirtoaca won the mayoralty in 2007. Mr. Chirtoaca's verbal parlays with deputy police inspector for Chisinau Iacob Gumenita have become legendary.
Mr. Catan said one of the first things he would do would be to appoint a new deputy police inspector for Chisinau. Chisinau mayor Dorin Chirtoaca reinforced his desire for local police forces to be transfered under the jurisdiction of local authorities. They are currently responsible to the Interior Ministry.
With the arrival of the new ruling Alliance for European Integration, analysts expect ties between central authorities and the Chisinau mayor to improve since the Liberal Party, whose deputy head is Mr. Chirtoaca, is part of the coalition. Mihai Ghimpu, the current Speaker and interim head of state, is also head of the Liberal Party.
Chisinau has always been an opposition stronghold against the Communists, who have never managed to run a successful candidate in the city.
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The Communist-headed security forces had been in a state of permanent conflict with Chisinau authorities until recently, especially after Mr. Chirtoaca won the mayoralty in 2007. Mr. Chirtoaca's verbal parlays with deputy police inspector for Chisinau Iacob Gumenita have become legendary.
Mr. Catan said one of the first things he would do would be to appoint a new deputy police inspector for Chisinau. Chisinau mayor Dorin Chirtoaca reinforced his desire for local police forces to be transfered under the jurisdiction of local authorities. They are currently responsible to the Interior Ministry.
With the arrival of the new ruling Alliance for European Integration, analysts expect ties between central authorities and the Chisinau mayor to improve since the Liberal Party, whose deputy head is Mr. Chirtoaca, is part of the coalition. Mihai Ghimpu, the current Speaker and interim head of state, is also head of the Liberal Party.
Chisinau has always been an opposition stronghold against the Communists, who have never managed to run a successful candidate in the city.
h/t www.zdg.md
Premier and Foreign Affairs Minister to head to Brussels on Tuesday, will ask for replacement of Russian peacekeepers in Transnistria
Moldovan Prime Minister Vlad Filat and Foreign Affairs Minister Iurie Leanca will head to Brussels on Tuesday to talk with European Union officials about deepening ties.
The Moldovan officials said they will inquire into the possibility of replacing Russian peacekeeping troops in the breakaway republic of Transnistria in Eastern Moldova with an international mission with E.U. participation.
Mr. Filat and Mr. Leanca also noted that they will ask the European Union to lay out a clear path to Moldova's European integration and for a clause in the new E.U.-Moldova agreement that lists the country's eligibility to join the E.U.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration's main goal is to join the European Union.
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The Moldovan officials said they will inquire into the possibility of replacing Russian peacekeeping troops in the breakaway republic of Transnistria in Eastern Moldova with an international mission with E.U. participation.
Mr. Filat and Mr. Leanca also noted that they will ask the European Union to lay out a clear path to Moldova's European integration and for a clause in the new E.U.-Moldova agreement that lists the country's eligibility to join the E.U.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration's main goal is to join the European Union.
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Friday, September 25, 2009
Parliament appoints new Secret Service head
Parliament fired Artur Resetnicov, head of the Security and Information Service (SIS), today.
Mr. Resetnicov was replaced with Gheorghe Mihai, who was nominated by Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu. Mr. Mihai is 59 years old and has worked for the SIS since 1989. He was moved to SIS reserves in 2007.
Parliament accused Mr. Resetnicov of not respecting his professional duties and the law on the SIS's activity.
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Mr. Resetnicov was replaced with Gheorghe Mihai, who was nominated by Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu. Mr. Mihai is 59 years old and has worked for the SIS since 1989. He was moved to SIS reserves in 2007.
Parliament accused Mr. Resetnicov of not respecting his professional duties and the law on the SIS's activity.
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National Bank Governor may be replaced
Leonid Talmaci, the Governor of Moldova's National Bank, may be replaced by the ruling Alliance for European Integration. Mr. Talmaci has been Governor since 1991. His seven-year term expires on September 25, 2009.
Infotag says that Mr. Talmaci met with bank heads on Thursday and told them he would be leaving after his mandate expires.
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Infotag says that Mr. Talmaci met with bank heads on Thursday and told them he would be leaving after his mandate expires.
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Parliament approves cabinet, Vlad Filat is Prime Minister
Parliament approved the new cabinet today with the 53 votes belonging to the ruling Alliance for European Integration. Liberal Democratic Party head Vlad Filat will be Prime Minister. Seats have been distributed according to a formula that corresponds roughly with the number of seats each of the four parties making up the coalition gained on July 29, 2009.
Aside from 16 ministers, the cabinet also includes Mihail Formuzal, the Governor of the Gagauz autonomous region in Southern Moldova, and Gheorghe Duca, head of the Science Academy of Moldova.
Both the United States and the European Union congratulated Mr. Filat on his appointment.
h/t www.moldova.org
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Aside from 16 ministers, the cabinet also includes Mihail Formuzal, the Governor of the Gagauz autonomous region in Southern Moldova, and Gheorghe Duca, head of the Science Academy of Moldova.
Both the United States and the European Union congratulated Mr. Filat on his appointment.
h/t www.moldova.org
www.azi.md
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Prime Minister designate presents his cabinet's program, Parliament to vote on it tomorrow
Prime Minister designate Vlad Filat presented his cabinet and governmental program today, entitled "European Integration: Liberty, Democracy, and Wealth."
The program has five priorities: European integration, the country's reintegration [Imedia: a reference to the reunification of the territory controlled by Moldovan authorities with the separatist republic of Transnistria], the supremacy of the rule of law, overcoming the financial-economic crisis and the provision of inclusive economic growth, and the decentralization of power and an increase in local autonomy.
Parliament will vote on the program tomorrow. It is very likely that Mr. Filat will be officially elected as Prime Minister since the ruling Alliance for European Integration, of which he is a member, has a majority of 53 out of 101 seats in the legislature.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
The program has five priorities: European integration, the country's reintegration [Imedia: a reference to the reunification of the territory controlled by Moldovan authorities with the separatist republic of Transnistria], the supremacy of the rule of law, overcoming the financial-economic crisis and the provision of inclusive economic growth, and the decentralization of power and an increase in local autonomy.
Parliament will vote on the program tomorrow. It is very likely that Mr. Filat will be officially elected as Prime Minister since the ruling Alliance for European Integration, of which he is a member, has a majority of 53 out of 101 seats in the legislature.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Ethno-jazz festival begins in Chisinau
Chisinau is hosting the eighth edition of the Etho-Jazz Festival between September 24 and 27. The event has become a tradition in Moldova and is one of the most well-known international music festivals in the country.
It is organized by Moldovan ethno-jazz band Trigon. Bands from numerous countries will be in attendance, including The Shin (Georgia), Djabe (Hungary), Klaus Paier Trio (Austria), and so on.
Some concerts will also be held in Tiraspol, the capital of the breakaway republic of Transnistria in Moldova's East.
Part of the proceeds wil be donated to a hospital for new-borns in Chisinau and two boarding schools.
h/t www.jurnal.md
It is organized by Moldovan ethno-jazz band Trigon. Bands from numerous countries will be in attendance, including The Shin (Georgia), Djabe (Hungary), Klaus Paier Trio (Austria), and so on.
Some concerts will also be held in Tiraspol, the capital of the breakaway republic of Transnistria in Moldova's East.
Part of the proceeds wil be donated to a hospital for new-borns in Chisinau and two boarding schools.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Moldovan intellectuals unhappy with new Minister of Culture
The Writers' Union, Composers' Union, Fine Arts Union, and Journalists' Union released a statement today asking the ruling Alliance for European Integration to reconsider the appointment of Boris Focsa as Minister of Culture.
Some Moldovan editorialists like Constantin Cheianu have written that Mr. Focsa did a poor job managing the well-known Luceafarul theater company in Chisinau and that he cooperated with the Communists between 2001 and 2009.
This is one of the first rifts between Moldovan intellectuals and the ruling Alliance, which is a bad sign considering the fact that most of them were openly supportive of the anti-Communist parties on both April 5 and July 29.
h/t www.hotnews.md
Some Moldovan editorialists like Constantin Cheianu have written that Mr. Focsa did a poor job managing the well-known Luceafarul theater company in Chisinau and that he cooperated with the Communists between 2001 and 2009.
This is one of the first rifts between Moldovan intellectuals and the ruling Alliance, which is a bad sign considering the fact that most of them were openly supportive of the anti-Communist parties on both April 5 and July 29.
h/t www.hotnews.md
Speaker Ghimpu meets with CIS Secretary General to discuss organization of CIS Summit in Chisinau
Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu met with Sergei Lebedev, Secretary General of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), to discuss some details about the organization of a CIS Summit in Chisinau between October 8 and 9.
The Russian official (Mr. Lebedev used to head the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service) said that he thinks the summit will be "successful."
h/t www.voceabasarabiei.net
The Russian official (Mr. Lebedev used to head the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service) said that he thinks the summit will be "successful."
h/t www.voceabasarabiei.net
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Moldova is not quitting the CIS: Speaker
Moldovan Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu said that the country will not be quitting the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) despite some rumors suggeting such a decision.
CIS Executive Secretary told the press that Mr. Ghimpu tried to assure him that Moldova will not be leaving the organization.
The CIS was founded in the wake of the fall of the Soviet Union, and included every former Soviet republic with the exception of the Baltic states. Georgia recently withdrew, as well.
h/t www.europalibera.org
www.hotnews.md
CIS Executive Secretary told the press that Mr. Ghimpu tried to assure him that Moldova will not be leaving the organization.
The CIS was founded in the wake of the fall of the Soviet Union, and included every former Soviet republic with the exception of the Baltic states. Georgia recently withdrew, as well.
h/t www.europalibera.org
www.hotnews.md
Online television station JurnalTV wins Webstock award
Online Moldovan television station JurnalTV recently won the Webstock 2009 award for best video and audio online station.
The award ceremony was held in Bucharest and included over 600 competitors. JurnalTV was the only Moldovan website to win a prize.
The online TV station made a name for itself during the April protests in Moldova and the repression that followed. JurnalTV was one of the very few media outlets in the country that showed numerous interviews with young men and women who had said they had been tortured by the security forces after April 7 and 8.
During their reporting, JurnalTV cameraman Oleg Brega was beaten, most likely by police officers, and JurnalTV reporter Rodica Mahu was detained without explanation for several hours by unknown people. One of the most striking images provided by JurnalTV at the time showed JurnalTV director Val Butnaru desperately looking for Ms. Mahu in Chisinau, and a protester being beaten and detained by plain-clothes officers in the back of the Government building.
The award ceremony was held in Bucharest and included over 600 competitors. JurnalTV was the only Moldovan website to win a prize.
The online TV station made a name for itself during the April protests in Moldova and the repression that followed. JurnalTV was one of the very few media outlets in the country that showed numerous interviews with young men and women who had said they had been tortured by the security forces after April 7 and 8.
During their reporting, JurnalTV cameraman Oleg Brega was beaten, most likely by police officers, and JurnalTV reporter Rodica Mahu was detained without explanation for several hours by unknown people. One of the most striking images provided by JurnalTV at the time showed JurnalTV director Val Butnaru desperately looking for Ms. Mahu in Chisinau, and a protester being beaten and detained by plain-clothes officers in the back of the Government building.
Mocanu brothers leave premises of Romanian Embassy in Chisinau after a year of living there
On September 25, 2008, Adrian and Roman Mocanu jumped the fence to the Romanian Embassy and refused to leave the premises, accusing Moldovan authorities of abuse and persecution.
The two brothers, who hold both Moldovan and Romanian citizenship, were accused of assaulting a person in a dance club.
Sergiu Mocanu, their father, had been one of former President Vladimir Voronin's advisors, but eventually left and became a vocal opponent of the Communists. Mr. Mocanu said at the time that the Communists were punishing his sons in order to take political revenge on him.
Sergiu Mocanu was also later arrested after the devastation of the Parliament and Presidential buildings on April 7, 2009. Mr. Mocanu had been accused by authorities of attempting to stage a coup. He has been released, but is still under investigation.
h/t www.jurnal.md
The two brothers, who hold both Moldovan and Romanian citizenship, were accused of assaulting a person in a dance club.
Sergiu Mocanu, their father, had been one of former President Vladimir Voronin's advisors, but eventually left and became a vocal opponent of the Communists. Mr. Mocanu said at the time that the Communists were punishing his sons in order to take political revenge on him.
Sergiu Mocanu was also later arrested after the devastation of the Parliament and Presidential buildings on April 7, 2009. Mr. Mocanu had been accused by authorities of attempting to stage a coup. He has been released, but is still under investigation.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Prime Minister's first visit abroad will be to Brussels
Prime Minister Vlad Filat told ProTV that his first visit abroad will be to Brussels, where he will speak with European officials about improving ties.
Mr. Filat added that he would also be visiting Paris, Berlin, Bucharest, and Kiev.
The Prime Minister stressed that the Moldovan Government will soon sign an agreement with Romania on small-scale trade at the border, which will allow Moldovan citizens living within 50 kilometers of the Romanian border to travel to this country without a visa.
h/t www.zdg.md
www.evz.ro
Mr. Filat added that he would also be visiting Paris, Berlin, Bucharest, and Kiev.
The Prime Minister stressed that the Moldovan Government will soon sign an agreement with Romania on small-scale trade at the border, which will allow Moldovan citizens living within 50 kilometers of the Romanian border to travel to this country without a visa.
h/t www.zdg.md
www.evz.ro
Romania to open two more consulates in Moldova, lobby for cancellation of EU visa regime
Titus Corlatean, head of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the Romanian Senate, held a press conference in Chisinau today. Mr. Corlatean met with Prime Minister Vlad Filat, Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu, Democratic Party leader and potential President Marian Lupu, as well as deputy Speaker Serafim Urechean.
The Romanian official said that he already has the preliminary approval from Bucharest to open up two more Romanian consulates in Moldova. Chisinau will, in turn, open a consulate in the city of Iasi, which is right at the border with Romania.
Communist authorities refused to allow Bucharest to open more consulates in Moldova, despite overcrowding problems at the one in Chisinau. Particularly after Romania joined the European Union and imposed visas on Moldovan citizens, the consulate in Chisinau has become notorious for long lines. Media outlets covered numerous cases of Moldovans staying overnight on the lawn in front of the consulate in order to secure a place in line.
Mr. Corlatean also added that Romania would lobby for the EU's cancellation of its visa regime with Moldova. Currently, Moldovan citizens need visas for every EU member-country.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
The Romanian official said that he already has the preliminary approval from Bucharest to open up two more Romanian consulates in Moldova. Chisinau will, in turn, open a consulate in the city of Iasi, which is right at the border with Romania.
Communist authorities refused to allow Bucharest to open more consulates in Moldova, despite overcrowding problems at the one in Chisinau. Particularly after Romania joined the European Union and imposed visas on Moldovan citizens, the consulate in Chisinau has become notorious for long lines. Media outlets covered numerous cases of Moldovans staying overnight on the lawn in front of the consulate in order to secure a place in line.
Mr. Corlatean also added that Romania would lobby for the EU's cancellation of its visa regime with Moldova. Currently, Moldovan citizens need visas for every EU member-country.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Friday, September 18, 2009
Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu to meet Kremlin chief of staff
Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu will meet with Kremlin chief of staff Sergei Naryshkin next week. Mr. Naryshkin will be in Chisinau to attend a Forum of Intellectuals and Researchers from the Commonwealth of Independent States, which is scheduled to take place in Chisinau between September 24 and 25.
It is unclear what the ties will be between the new ruling Alliance for European Integration and Russia since Moscow has often shown open support for the Party of Communists during its eight-year rule in Moldova. Russian officials have also expressed concern about the Alliance's pro-Western stance.
www.hotnews.md
www.jurnal.md
It is unclear what the ties will be between the new ruling Alliance for European Integration and Russia since Moscow has often shown open support for the Party of Communists during its eight-year rule in Moldova. Russian officials have also expressed concern about the Alliance's pro-Western stance.
www.hotnews.md
www.jurnal.md
IMF to come back to Moldova to negotiate loan
Prime Minister Vlad Filat told the press today that "as soon as the Government is voted in, representatives from the International Monetary Fund will come to Chisinau to resume negotiations. We will, as a result, get a loan that will help us overcome the dramatic situation we are in today in terms of our budget deficit, debts, and many other problems."
An IMF delegation tried to negotiate with the former Communist authorities a few months ago, but did not reach an agreement. The Communists said at the time that the international organization had asked that salaries be lowered and that state employees be fired.
Mr. Filat said, however, that "the IMF never made such requests."
h/t www.stireazilei.md
An IMF delegation tried to negotiate with the former Communist authorities a few months ago, but did not reach an agreement. The Communists said at the time that the international organization had asked that salaries be lowered and that state employees be fired.
Mr. Filat said, however, that "the IMF never made such requests."
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Party of Communists calls for "organized and democratic resistance" to the "reactionary" Alliance
The Party of Communists (PC) called today for "organized and democratic resistance" to "the new regime" today. he PC is referring to the new ruling Alliance for European Integration, which holds a thin majority in Parliament (53 seats out of 101) and which has managed to appoint a Speaker and a Prime Minister.
Speaker Mihai Ghimpu is also interim President after former President and PC head Vladimir Voronin resigned.
The PC said that "the liberal-democratic reactionary forces, represented by the Liberal Democrats, the Liberals, the Democrats, and Moldova Noastra have come to power and have begun to attack society and to trample the fundamental rights of the people."
The former ruling party is referring to the four parties' recent decision in the Chisinau city hall to increase tariffs for public transportation and water consumption, as a result of which "the most vulnerable categories in society - the youth and retirees - are in a desperate situation, without any hopes for understanding and protection from the new Government."
Mayor Dorin Chirtoaca, deputy head of the Liberal Party, said, however, that the tariffs have been adjusted to real expenses. “We have the lowest prices in Chisinau today - the cost of water and transportation in raions is higher," Mr. Chirtoaca stressed. The "raion" is the primary sub-national administrative unit in Moldova, the local version of an American "state" or a German "land."
h/t www.azi.md
www.stireazilei.md
Speaker Mihai Ghimpu is also interim President after former President and PC head Vladimir Voronin resigned.
The PC said that "the liberal-democratic reactionary forces, represented by the Liberal Democrats, the Liberals, the Democrats, and Moldova Noastra have come to power and have begun to attack society and to trample the fundamental rights of the people."
The former ruling party is referring to the four parties' recent decision in the Chisinau city hall to increase tariffs for public transportation and water consumption, as a result of which "the most vulnerable categories in society - the youth and retirees - are in a desperate situation, without any hopes for understanding and protection from the new Government."
Mayor Dorin Chirtoaca, deputy head of the Liberal Party, said, however, that the tariffs have been adjusted to real expenses. “We have the lowest prices in Chisinau today - the cost of water and transportation in raions is higher," Mr. Chirtoaca stressed. The "raion" is the primary sub-national administrative unit in Moldova, the local version of an American "state" or a German "land."
h/t www.azi.md
www.stireazilei.md
Constitutional Court: Mihai Ghimpu's appointment as interim President legal
The Party of Communists recently challenged the legality of Speaker Mihai Ghimpu's takeover as interim President after former President Vladimir Voronin announced his resignation.
The Constitutional Court rejected the challenge today, saying that Mr. Ghimpu's appointment was legal.
Interim President and Speaker Ghimpu has already signed two decrees cancelling the visa regime with Romania and nominating Liberal Democratic Party head Vlad Filat for the Prime Minister position.
h/t www.voceabasarabiei.net
The Constitutional Court rejected the challenge today, saying that Mr. Ghimpu's appointment was legal.
Interim President and Speaker Ghimpu has already signed two decrees cancelling the visa regime with Romania and nominating Liberal Democratic Party head Vlad Filat for the Prime Minister position.
h/t www.voceabasarabiei.net
Romanian official: abolition of visa regime with Romania signals the end of a Soviet-style totalitarian regime in Moldova
Eugen Tomac, the Romanian Foreign Affairs Ministry's state secretary for ties with Romanians everywhere, told Romanian news agency Agerpres that Moldova's cancellation of the visa regime with Bucharest mean the end of a Soviet-style totalitarian regime in Chisinau.
Mr. Tomac added that "in this way, Chisinau authorities are reaffirming their commitment to developing stronger ties with the European Union. Romania and Moldova are two independent states, but we should not equate states with the Romanian people. On both sides of the Prut, the majority population is made up of Romanians."
Mr. Tomac is referring to the river Prut, which acts as a natural border between Moldova and Romania.
h/t www.unimedia.md
Mr. Tomac added that "in this way, Chisinau authorities are reaffirming their commitment to developing stronger ties with the European Union. Romania and Moldova are two independent states, but we should not equate states with the Romanian people. On both sides of the Prut, the majority population is made up of Romanians."
Mr. Tomac is referring to the river Prut, which acts as a natural border between Moldova and Romania.
h/t www.unimedia.md
Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu cancels visa regime with Romania, nominates Liberal Democrat Vlad Filat for Prime Minister position
Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu signed his first two decrees today. The first one cancelled Moldova's visa regime with Romania. The Party of Communists-led Government imposed visas on Bucharest after accusing it of organizing the April 7 devastation of the Parliament and Presidency buildings as a result of street protests. President Voronin said at the time he had evidence of Romania's participation in the mass unrest, but the Prosecutor General later said Romania was not involved "as a country."
Mr. Ghimpu said that any customs official who will refuse to abide by the decree will be punished. The Speaker made the statement as many analysts have spoken about the difficulties the ruling Alliance may have with regaining control over the security forces in the country, many of which have been accused of having close ties with the Party of Communists. Ziarul de Garda called the Customs Office today, and representatives there said they had not heard of the decree.
The second decree nominated Liberal Democratic Party head Vlad Filat for the Prime Minister position. Mr. Filat's cabinet will have 16 ministries and eight agencies. The Alliance scrapped the Ministry of Reintegration (which deals with solving the conflict with the breakaway republic of Transnistria) and the Local Public Administration Ministry. The Party of Communists criticized this move. Alliance members said, however, that a deputy Prime Minister will now deal with the Transnistrian problem.
h/t www.deca.md
www.jurnal.md
Mr. Ghimpu said that any customs official who will refuse to abide by the decree will be punished. The Speaker made the statement as many analysts have spoken about the difficulties the ruling Alliance may have with regaining control over the security forces in the country, many of which have been accused of having close ties with the Party of Communists. Ziarul de Garda called the Customs Office today, and representatives there said they had not heard of the decree.
The second decree nominated Liberal Democratic Party head Vlad Filat for the Prime Minister position. Mr. Filat's cabinet will have 16 ministries and eight agencies. The Alliance scrapped the Ministry of Reintegration (which deals with solving the conflict with the breakaway republic of Transnistria) and the Local Public Administration Ministry. The Party of Communists criticized this move. Alliance members said, however, that a deputy Prime Minister will now deal with the Transnistrian problem.
h/t www.deca.md
www.jurnal.md
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Moldovan Public Television and Radio station accuse Alliance of "denigration campaign"
Representatives from the Moldovan Public Television and Radio (MPTR) station released a statement recently, accusing the ruling Alliance for European Integration of organizing "a denigration campaign against our institution."
"The leadership of the public company is even being threatened with criminal prosecution," the statement continued.
Ties between the Alliance and MPTR have been strained after the public station refused to live-broadcast the legislature's meetings, as it has in the past. Alliance leaders have also accused MPTR of supporting the Party of Communists.
MPTR has often been accused by civil society activists and independent media organizations of being pro-Communist. Studies have shown that many of its news stories are biased in favor of the former ruling party.
h/t www.azi.md
"The leadership of the public company is even being threatened with criminal prosecution," the statement continued.
Ties between the Alliance and MPTR have been strained after the public station refused to live-broadcast the legislature's meetings, as it has in the past. Alliance leaders have also accused MPTR of supporting the Party of Communists.
MPTR has often been accused by civil society activists and independent media organizations of being pro-Communist. Studies have shown that many of its news stories are biased in favor of the former ruling party.
h/t www.azi.md
Communist head Vladimir Voronin says organized crime on the rise in Moldova after Alliance's arrival to power
Party of Communists head and former Moldovan President Vladimir Voronin (2001-2009) said during a press conference earlier this week that as the Communists are leaving the reins of power, the level of organized crime is going up in Moldova.
Mr. Voronin added that security forces have been complaining about a rise in criminal activity in the country.
Liberal Democratic Party M.P. Vitalie Nagacevschi, a well-known lawyer and civil society activist, says, however, that since the Interior Ministry or the Prosecutor's Office have not published any data on the topic, "we cannot say if there has been a rise or not."
Crime was a huge problem in Moldova in the 1990s, just like in every other post-Soviet country. The Party of Communists has often said the new Alliance will return Moldova to the 1990s.
h/t www.hotnews.md
Mr. Voronin added that security forces have been complaining about a rise in criminal activity in the country.
Liberal Democratic Party M.P. Vitalie Nagacevschi, a well-known lawyer and civil society activist, says, however, that since the Interior Ministry or the Prosecutor's Office have not published any data on the topic, "we cannot say if there has been a rise or not."
Crime was a huge problem in Moldova in the 1990s, just like in every other post-Soviet country. The Party of Communists has often said the new Alliance will return Moldova to the 1990s.
h/t www.hotnews.md
U.N. Special Rapporteur on torture: Moldovan police officers use torture to extract confessions
On September 16, Manfred Novak, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment released a report on Moldova after a visit to the country between July 4 and 11.
Mr. Novak noted that the mechanisms intended to protect Moldovans from torture, like the impartiality of judges, are very limited in the country.
He added that police officers use torture to extract confessions from suspects, and that the events of April 6-8 were a considerable step back in terms of respect for human rights in the country.
After peaceful protests on April 6 degenerated into the violent devastation of the Parliamentary and Presidential buildings in downtown Chisinau on April 7, hundreds of young men and women were detained in police stations. There were wide allegations of torture, which have been collected by organizations like Amnesty International. At least one death - that of Valeriu Boboc - has been tied to the harsh governmental repression on the night between April 7 to April 8.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Mr. Novak noted that the mechanisms intended to protect Moldovans from torture, like the impartiality of judges, are very limited in the country.
He added that police officers use torture to extract confessions from suspects, and that the events of April 6-8 were a considerable step back in terms of respect for human rights in the country.
After peaceful protests on April 6 degenerated into the violent devastation of the Parliamentary and Presidential buildings in downtown Chisinau on April 7, hundreds of young men and women were detained in police stations. There were wide allegations of torture, which have been collected by organizations like Amnesty International. At least one death - that of Valeriu Boboc - has been tied to the harsh governmental repression on the night between April 7 to April 8.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Alliance says it will announce structure of the new cabinet tomorrow
Liberal Democratic Party M.P. Alexandru Tanase told JurnalTV that the ruling Alliance for European Integration will announce the structure of the new cabinet tomorrow.
Mr. Tanase said that the Ministry of Reintegration, created to contribute to the resolution of the Transnistrian conflict, will be scrapped and that the responsibility for dealing with the separatist authorities will be transferred to a deputy Prime Minister.
The Liberal Democrat M.P. also noted that the Ministry of Informational Development will be closed.
Mr. Tanase stressed that the Alliance will try to implement cautious reforms at the Moldovan Public Television and Radio stations. The media institutions have often been accused of being pro-Communist.
h/t www.jurnal.md.
Mr. Tanase said that the Ministry of Reintegration, created to contribute to the resolution of the Transnistrian conflict, will be scrapped and that the responsibility for dealing with the separatist authorities will be transferred to a deputy Prime Minister.
The Liberal Democrat M.P. also noted that the Ministry of Informational Development will be closed.
Mr. Tanase stressed that the Alliance will try to implement cautious reforms at the Moldovan Public Television and Radio stations. The media institutions have often been accused of being pro-Communist.
h/t www.jurnal.md.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Alliance leaders willing to negotiate with Communists
Leaders of the ruling Alliance for European Integration have responded to President Voronin's statements during a press conference today. Mr. Voronin said the Party of Communists would be willing to vote for a presidential candidate and avoid pushing for early elections if the Alliance fulfills two conditions.
First, it needs to keep and increase all of the social welfare benefits currently in place. Second, the Alliance needs to preserve Moldova's military neutrality (which is noted in the Constitution) and to give the breakaway republic of Transnistria autonomy.
Liberal Democratic Party head Vlad Filat told the press that he would be willing to sit down to talk with the Communists about the conditions despite the fact that they are "odd."
Liberal Party head and current Speaker Mihai Ghimpu noted that Democratic Party head Marian Lupu, for whom Mr. Voronin said the Communists would not vote because he is a "traitor" and a "leech," remains the Alliance's presidential candidate.
Moldova Noastra [Our Moldova] Alliance head and first deputy Speaker Serafim Urechean said that "the Communist faction will vote for the President" anyway.
Finally, Democratic Party head Marian Lupu stressed that Mr. Voronin's conditions would be "discussed in great detail."
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.azi.md
First, it needs to keep and increase all of the social welfare benefits currently in place. Second, the Alliance needs to preserve Moldova's military neutrality (which is noted in the Constitution) and to give the breakaway republic of Transnistria autonomy.
Liberal Democratic Party head Vlad Filat told the press that he would be willing to sit down to talk with the Communists about the conditions despite the fact that they are "odd."
Liberal Party head and current Speaker Mihai Ghimpu noted that Democratic Party head Marian Lupu, for whom Mr. Voronin said the Communists would not vote because he is a "traitor" and a "leech," remains the Alliance's presidential candidate.
Moldova Noastra [Our Moldova] Alliance head and first deputy Speaker Serafim Urechean said that "the Communist faction will vote for the President" anyway.
Finally, Democratic Party head Marian Lupu stressed that Mr. Voronin's conditions would be "discussed in great detail."
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.azi.md
Communists will not vote for Marian Lupu for President because he is a "traitor" and a "leech"
Party of Communists (PC) head Vladimir Voronin told the press today that his party will not be voting for Marian Lupu for President because he is a "traitor" and a "leach."
Mr. Lupu was Speaker between 2005 and 2009. He defected from the Party of Communists after the April 5 parliamentary elections, amid rumors that he was unhappy with the fact that his party had not nominated him for President. The PC proposed Prime Minister Zinaida Greceanii instead.
Mr. Lupu then joined the Democratic Party, which won 13 seats in Parliament during the July 29 elections and became one of the co-founders of the ruling Alliance for European Integration.
Alliance leaders have said that Marian Lupu is their candidate for the Presidency.
Mr. Lupu was Speaker between 2005 and 2009. He defected from the Party of Communists after the April 5 parliamentary elections, amid rumors that he was unhappy with the fact that his party had not nominated him for President. The PC proposed Prime Minister Zinaida Greceanii instead.
Mr. Lupu then joined the Democratic Party, which won 13 seats in Parliament during the July 29 elections and became one of the co-founders of the ruling Alliance for European Integration.
Alliance leaders have said that Marian Lupu is their candidate for the Presidency.
U.S. Ambassador: Moldova is on a "path of democracy"
U.S. Ambassador to Moldova Asif Chaudhry told the press today that the U.S. intends to help Moldova consolidate its democratic system.
"I think what is going on now, and what has happened in this country since the inception of this country, is actually an example that the country is on a path of democracy. We need to help and make sure that democratic institutions function in a way that they are strong and that they can be sustained," Mr. Chaudhry stressed.
"I think what is going on now, and what has happened in this country since the inception of this country, is actually an example that the country is on a path of democracy. We need to help and make sure that democratic institutions function in a way that they are strong and that they can be sustained," Mr. Chaudhry stressed.
Communist head: Formation of center-left coalition failed because the four Alliance parties were united
Former Moldovan President and current Party of Communists head Vladimir Voronin said during a press conference today that his party failed to form a center-left coalition because the four parties making up the ruling Alliance for European Integration were united.
The Communists have refused to recognize the existence of the Alliance as an entity, and announced several days ago that they would only negotiate with individual parties to try to form a center-left coalition.
The four Alliance members rejected the proposal.
h/t www.jurnal.md
The Communists have refused to recognize the existence of the Alliance as an entity, and announced several days ago that they would only negotiate with individual parties to try to form a center-left coalition.
The four Alliance members rejected the proposal.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Communists won't push for early elections if ruling Alliance fulfills two conditions
Former President and current Party of Communists head Vladimir Voronin seems to have changed his mind about early elections. Earlier in the week, Mr. Voronin told Russian radio station Ekho Moskvi that he plans on consolidating the Party of Communists (PC) and on pushing for early elections.
During a press conference today, however, Mr. Voronin noted that he would like to give the ruling Alliance for European Integration "an exclusive chance to spare the country from the danger of early elections."
The Communist head proposed that the coalition implement two policies which would then convince his party to vote for a President. First, Mr. Voronin asked that the Alliance raise the minimum wage every two years, increase welfare bonuses for mothers who just gave birth and for childcare, keep the yearly adjusted level of pensions (which would mean they would have to be often increased), keep the retirement age, keep the same number of schools, kindergartens, medical institutions, and so on.
Second, the former President asked that the Alliance keep Moldova's military neutrality and not join any military blocs, that it continue negotiations with the breakaway Transnistrian republic, and that it give the separatist entity a special status of an autonomous republic within Moldova.
Alliance leaders have not yet reacted to Mr. Voronin's conditions.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
During a press conference today, however, Mr. Voronin noted that he would like to give the ruling Alliance for European Integration "an exclusive chance to spare the country from the danger of early elections."
The Communist head proposed that the coalition implement two policies which would then convince his party to vote for a President. First, Mr. Voronin asked that the Alliance raise the minimum wage every two years, increase welfare bonuses for mothers who just gave birth and for childcare, keep the yearly adjusted level of pensions (which would mean they would have to be often increased), keep the retirement age, keep the same number of schools, kindergartens, medical institutions, and so on.
Second, the former President asked that the Alliance keep Moldova's military neutrality and not join any military blocs, that it continue negotiations with the breakaway Transnistrian republic, and that it give the separatist entity a special status of an autonomous republic within Moldova.
Alliance leaders have not yet reacted to Mr. Voronin's conditions.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Visas for Romanian citizens to be cancelled this week
Speaker Mihai Ghimpu told Radio France Internationale that once he becomes interim President, he will cancel the Government's decision to introduce visas for Romanian citizens.
Mr. Ghimpu will soon become interim head of state after acting President Vladimir Voronin resigned recently.
The Communist-led Government imposed a visa regime on Romanian citizens immediately after the violent street protests on April 7, during which the Parliamentary and Presidential buildings were vandalized. President Voronin said at the time that he had information that Romania was involved in the organization of the protests.
Moldova's Prosecutor General later noted, however, that Romania was not involved in the events "as a country."
Mr. Voronin said during a press conference today that "the visa regime was imposed after specific conditions after April 7. If these conditions no longer exist, the Parliament can come back to this problem" and cancel the visas.
h/t www.interlic.md
www.jurnal.md
Mr. Ghimpu will soon become interim head of state after acting President Vladimir Voronin resigned recently.
The Communist-led Government imposed a visa regime on Romanian citizens immediately after the violent street protests on April 7, during which the Parliamentary and Presidential buildings were vandalized. President Voronin said at the time that he had information that Romania was involved in the organization of the protests.
Moldova's Prosecutor General later noted, however, that Romania was not involved in the events "as a country."
Mr. Voronin said during a press conference today that "the visa regime was imposed after specific conditions after April 7. If these conditions no longer exist, the Parliament can come back to this problem" and cancel the visas.
h/t www.interlic.md
www.jurnal.md
Monday, September 14, 2009
Russia will recognize breakaway republic if Moldova joins Romania
Alexei Ostrovski, head of the Russian Duma's Committee for ties with the Commonwealth of Independent States, said recently that Russia would recognize Transnistria's independence if Moldova unites with Romania.
Transnistria is a breakaway republic in eastern Moldova. Separatist authorities consolidated control in the area east of the river Nistru after a short but bloody war with Moldovan authorities in 1992.
Mr. Ostrovski's statements come at a time when the Party of Communists and mass media affiliated to it have circulated accusations that the new ruling Alliance for European Integration may try to unite with Romania.
Alliance leaders have adamantly denied these allegations, and independent analysts think the accusations are unfounded.
Moldova (without Transnistria) was part of Romania between the two world wars, but was occupied by the Soviet Union afterwards. After the USSR collapsed, a portion of the population and the political elites in the country sought reunification.
It is unclear how many people want reunification since there has been no consistent polling on the matter, but the topic is certainly visible in the public sphere in the country.
Transnistria is a breakaway republic in eastern Moldova. Separatist authorities consolidated control in the area east of the river Nistru after a short but bloody war with Moldovan authorities in 1992.
Mr. Ostrovski's statements come at a time when the Party of Communists and mass media affiliated to it have circulated accusations that the new ruling Alliance for European Integration may try to unite with Romania.
Alliance leaders have adamantly denied these allegations, and independent analysts think the accusations are unfounded.
Moldova (without Transnistria) was part of Romania between the two world wars, but was occupied by the Soviet Union afterwards. After the USSR collapsed, a portion of the population and the political elites in the country sought reunification.
It is unclear how many people want reunification since there has been no consistent polling on the matter, but the topic is certainly visible in the public sphere in the country.
Council of Europe urges ruling Alliance and Communists to have dialogue
The Council of Europe's Parliamentary Assembly adopted a resolution last week, urging the Alliance for European Integration and the Party of Communists to engage in dialogue in order to overcome the political crisis and to elect a head of state.
Josette Durrieu (France, Socialist Group) and Egidijus Vareikis (Lithuania, EPP/CD), the two co-rapporteurs for Moldova, asked that Moldovan authorities engage in "far-reaching reform," and recommended that both the Alliance and the Communists consider changing the Constitution in order to allow the direct election of the President.
A draft of the resolution can be accessed here.
Moldovans elected their President by popular ballot until 2000, when the Communists managed to push through a change in the Constitution that transferred the appointment of the head of state to Parliament. Legislators now elect the President with a 61-M.P. majority out of 101. Both after April 5 and after July 29, neither the Communists nor the anti-Communist parties had the necessary number of votes to single-handedly push through their own candidates. In fact, the early elections of July 29 were a direct cause of the failure of the Party of Communists to get one more vote to elect its candidate.
As a result, many have suggested that a return to a direct presidential election would be a solution to a possible long-term stalemate between the Communists and the Alliance.
Ruling Alliance members have often expressed a desire for a direct Presidential election, while the Communists are adamantly against it.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Josette Durrieu (France, Socialist Group) and Egidijus Vareikis (Lithuania, EPP/CD), the two co-rapporteurs for Moldova, asked that Moldovan authorities engage in "far-reaching reform," and recommended that both the Alliance and the Communists consider changing the Constitution in order to allow the direct election of the President.
A draft of the resolution can be accessed here.
Moldovans elected their President by popular ballot until 2000, when the Communists managed to push through a change in the Constitution that transferred the appointment of the head of state to Parliament. Legislators now elect the President with a 61-M.P. majority out of 101. Both after April 5 and after July 29, neither the Communists nor the anti-Communist parties had the necessary number of votes to single-handedly push through their own candidates. In fact, the early elections of July 29 were a direct cause of the failure of the Party of Communists to get one more vote to elect its candidate.
As a result, many have suggested that a return to a direct presidential election would be a solution to a possible long-term stalemate between the Communists and the Alliance.
Ruling Alliance members have often expressed a desire for a direct Presidential election, while the Communists are adamantly against it.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Americans and Romanians helped ruling Alliance win: Communist head Vladimir Voronin
Vladimir Voronin, Party of Communists head and former Moldovan President (2001-2009) told Russian radio station Ekho Moskvi that the West helped the ruling Alliance for European Integration win the July 29 legislative elections.
Mr. Voronin said that “those who paid a similar sum to break up the former Soviet Union weren't too sad about finding a few million dollars to buy votes to defeat us. But you probably know that we weren't defeated. We won again because our party alone received 48 percent of the vote in Parliament."
He added that "they [the four parties that formed the Alliance] united against us, not out of their own will, but because of various commissars - from Washington, from Bucharest, from other European countries, from the European Union. There were a bunch of them gathering up and strengthening this so-called Alliance for European Integration."
Western diplomatic representatives have not yet commented on Mr. Voronin accusations.
h/t www.hotnews.ro
Mr. Voronin said that “those who paid a similar sum to break up the former Soviet Union weren't too sad about finding a few million dollars to buy votes to defeat us. But you probably know that we weren't defeated. We won again because our party alone received 48 percent of the vote in Parliament."
He added that "they [the four parties that formed the Alliance] united against us, not out of their own will, but because of various commissars - from Washington, from Bucharest, from other European countries, from the European Union. There were a bunch of them gathering up and strengthening this so-called Alliance for European Integration."
Western diplomatic representatives have not yet commented on Mr. Voronin accusations.
h/t www.hotnews.ro
Communist head and former President: The Party of Communists is getting ready for early elections
Vladimir Voronin, Party of Communists head and former Moldovan President (2001-2009) told Russian radio station Ekho Moskvi that his party is getting ready for early elections.
"I will be dedicating all of my powers, attention, and time to strengthening the party and to getting it ready for early elections. In terms of our participation in the presidential election [Imedia: Mr. Voronin is referring to the fact that the ruling Alliance for European Integration needs eight Communist votes to be able to push through its own candidate in Parliament], the Central Committee has not yet made a final decision, but I am certain and will ask the Central Committee to allow the faction not to vote for any of their candidates," Mr. Voronin said.
He added that "I am already imagining myself at a podium, in front of many thousands of voters, to whom I am proving what this new government will do to Moldova if we have the same results we had recently" [Imedia: on July 29].
The leaders of the ruling Alliance for European Integration have not yet reacted to this statement.
h/t www.unimedia.md
"I will be dedicating all of my powers, attention, and time to strengthening the party and to getting it ready for early elections. In terms of our participation in the presidential election [Imedia: Mr. Voronin is referring to the fact that the ruling Alliance for European Integration needs eight Communist votes to be able to push through its own candidate in Parliament], the Central Committee has not yet made a final decision, but I am certain and will ask the Central Committee to allow the faction not to vote for any of their candidates," Mr. Voronin said.
He added that "I am already imagining myself at a podium, in front of many thousands of voters, to whom I am proving what this new government will do to Moldova if we have the same results we had recently" [Imedia: on July 29].
The leaders of the ruling Alliance for European Integration have not yet reacted to this statement.
h/t www.unimedia.md
Communists to challenge appointment of Speaker Ghimpu as interim President
Acting President Vladimir Voronin resigned his post recently. Speaker Ghimpu was appointed interim head of state.
Communist M.P. Victor Stepaniuc told the press, however, that Moldova currently has two heads of state since the Constitutional Court has not yet ruled on the presidency's interim status.
"The Constitutional Court has to establish interim status. Until the Court clarifies every circumstance about this, the Parliament has no right to transfer interim status to the Speaker," Mr. Stepaniuc stressed.
He noted that the Communists would challenge Mr. Ghimpu's appointment as interim head of state.
Earlier, the Party of Communists challenged Mr. Ghimpu's appointment as Speaker, but the Constitutional Court rejected the challenge.
h/t www.interlic.md
Communist M.P. Victor Stepaniuc told the press, however, that Moldova currently has two heads of state since the Constitutional Court has not yet ruled on the presidency's interim status.
"The Constitutional Court has to establish interim status. Until the Court clarifies every circumstance about this, the Parliament has no right to transfer interim status to the Speaker," Mr. Stepaniuc stressed.
He noted that the Communists would challenge Mr. Ghimpu's appointment as interim head of state.
Earlier, the Party of Communists challenged Mr. Ghimpu's appointment as Speaker, but the Constitutional Court rejected the challenge.
h/t www.interlic.md
Friday, September 11, 2009
Alliance leaders comment on President Vladimir Voronin's resignation
Acting President Vladimir Voronin resigned his post today. Speaker Mihai Ghimpu was appointed interim head of state.
Liberal Democratic Party head Vlad Filat said that Mr. Voronin will be a simple M.P. and will not get to be a head or a secretary of any legislative committee. "I wish him happy retirement," Mr. Filat added.
Moldova Noastra [Our Moldova] Alliance head Serafim Urechean noted that "the entire country will be celebrating today [Imedia: about Mr. Voronin's resignation]. Voronin should have come to Parliament to resign. But he acted like a vagabond."
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.stireazilei.md
Liberal Democratic Party head Vlad Filat said that Mr. Voronin will be a simple M.P. and will not get to be a head or a secretary of any legislative committee. "I wish him happy retirement," Mr. Filat added.
Moldova Noastra [Our Moldova] Alliance head Serafim Urechean noted that "the entire country will be celebrating today [Imedia: about Mr. Voronin's resignation]. Voronin should have come to Parliament to resign. But he acted like a vagabond."
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.stireazilei.md
Speaker Mihai Ghimpu to meet with security forces leaders tonight
Speaker Mihai Ghimpu is planning on having an evening meeting with the ministries that coordinate security forces in Moldova, like the Interior Ministry.
Mr. Ghimpu said he was going to ask these officials to properly perform their tasks. He added that "we should not think that anything is allowed in Moldova."
The latter statement was rather cryptic, but Mr. Ghimpu is possibly referring to frequent accusations that the security forces in Moldova are subordinated to the Party of Communists.
Mr. Ghimpu said he was going to ask these officials to properly perform their tasks. He added that "we should not think that anything is allowed in Moldova."
The latter statement was rather cryptic, but Mr. Ghimpu is possibly referring to frequent accusations that the security forces in Moldova are subordinated to the Party of Communists.
Moldovans lay flowers in front of U.S. Embassy in Chisinau to commemorate 9/11 terrorist attacks
A few Moldovans laid flowers in front of the U.S. Embassy in Chisinau today to commemorate the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Liberal Democratic Party head Vlad Filat said that "this is in memory of the ones who are no longer among us, and those who are still suffering because of losing their loved ones. It is important for us not to forget what happened so that we do not let these tragic events happen again."
Valeriu Saharneanu, head of the Journalists' Union of Moldova noted that "any human being's tragedy gives rise to compassion. The American people suffered a lot during that day. What happened there was a sign that the world is in danger. We are a people that have been touched by the aggressiveness of the 20th century and we know what suffering is. That is why we are here - to share in the suffering of the American people."
Vladimir Crasicov said he donated blood right after he heard about the tragedy, and that he comes to the Embassy every year.
h/t www.info-prim.md
Liberal Democratic Party head Vlad Filat said that "this is in memory of the ones who are no longer among us, and those who are still suffering because of losing their loved ones. It is important for us not to forget what happened so that we do not let these tragic events happen again."
Valeriu Saharneanu, head of the Journalists' Union of Moldova noted that "any human being's tragedy gives rise to compassion. The American people suffered a lot during that day. What happened there was a sign that the world is in danger. We are a people that have been touched by the aggressiveness of the 20th century and we know what suffering is. That is why we are here - to share in the suffering of the American people."
Vladimir Crasicov said he donated blood right after he heard about the tragedy, and that he comes to the Embassy every year.
h/t www.info-prim.md
Acting President Vladimir Voronin resigns, harshly criticizes new ruling Alliance
President Vladimir Voronin announced his resignation today.
Mr. Voronin said that "Moldova has proven during this period [Imedia: since the Communists came to power in 2001] that it can be a sovereign state and society that deserves independence and democracy. Although Moldova is not yet among the richest countries in Europe, it is now clear to everyone that we can make progress despite the most difficult challenges."
He added that "it is hard for me to give up the leadership of the country to the new authorities. I will be honest with you: these politicians have made an alliance simply based on the denial and total denigration of their own country, just for the sake of distributing leadership positions. So I do not believe in their ability to propose a new positive program to society."
"I do not believe in their ability to be a united team, of leading the state based on your fundamental interests instead of their own purposes and interests. No government that has been based on the idea of liquidating its own country, on the hope of destroying it, has ever been successful. You can only sow desperation, demoralization, and fatality on such soil. Nothing more," the acting President continued.
Mr. Voronin emphasized that "despite all of this, I want to be optimistic."
He also noted that "now, the entire team of my supporters and comrades, which we have put together during these eight years, myself included, will join the ranks of the opposition."
After lengthy debates with the Party of Communists, the Alliance for European Integration adopted a decision appointing Speaker Mihai Ghimpu as interim President.
h/t www.comunicate.md
www.info-prim.md
Mr. Voronin said that "Moldova has proven during this period [Imedia: since the Communists came to power in 2001] that it can be a sovereign state and society that deserves independence and democracy. Although Moldova is not yet among the richest countries in Europe, it is now clear to everyone that we can make progress despite the most difficult challenges."
He added that "it is hard for me to give up the leadership of the country to the new authorities. I will be honest with you: these politicians have made an alliance simply based on the denial and total denigration of their own country, just for the sake of distributing leadership positions. So I do not believe in their ability to propose a new positive program to society."
"I do not believe in their ability to be a united team, of leading the state based on your fundamental interests instead of their own purposes and interests. No government that has been based on the idea of liquidating its own country, on the hope of destroying it, has ever been successful. You can only sow desperation, demoralization, and fatality on such soil. Nothing more," the acting President continued.
Mr. Voronin emphasized that "despite all of this, I want to be optimistic."
He also noted that "now, the entire team of my supporters and comrades, which we have put together during these eight years, myself included, will join the ranks of the opposition."
After lengthy debates with the Party of Communists, the Alliance for European Integration adopted a decision appointing Speaker Mihai Ghimpu as interim President.
h/t www.comunicate.md
www.info-prim.md
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Communists ask for repeat election of Speaker
After the Constitutional Court ruled against a Party of Communists challenge, and established that Mihai Ghimpu's appointment as Speaker was legal, Communist M.P. Vladimir Turcan insisted on a repeat election.
Mr. Turcan stressed that the Court's decision was a draw - three judges ruled in favor of the Communists and three in favor of the legality of Mr. Ghimpu's appointment. The Court would have needed a majority vote to establish the illegality of the new Speaker's election.
Mr. Turcan stressed that the Court's decision was a draw - three judges ruled in favor of the Communists and three in favor of the legality of Mr. Ghimpu's appointment. The Court would have needed a majority vote to establish the illegality of the new Speaker's election.
Acting President Vladimir Voronin appoints Justice Minister as interim Prime Minister until September 14
Acting President Vladimir Voronin signed a decree today appointing Justice Minister Vitalie Pirlog as interim Prime Minister until September 14.
Zinaida Greceanii, who was in that position before Mr. Pirlog, recently resigned, saying that she wanted to be an M.P. instead (the two posts are incompatible). Ms. Greceanii ran on the Party of Communists list on July 29.
Mr. Voronin's term as President expires on September 14. Current Speaker Mihai Ghimpu will then take over as interim President until a new one is elected. Mr. Ghimpu will also get to nominate a Prime Minister, who will then have to be approved by a majority (52 seats out of 101) vote in the legislature.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Zinaida Greceanii, who was in that position before Mr. Pirlog, recently resigned, saying that she wanted to be an M.P. instead (the two posts are incompatible). Ms. Greceanii ran on the Party of Communists list on July 29.
Mr. Voronin's term as President expires on September 14. Current Speaker Mihai Ghimpu will then take over as interim President until a new one is elected. Mr. Ghimpu will also get to nominate a Prime Minister, who will then have to be approved by a majority (52 seats out of 101) vote in the legislature.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Ruling Alliance elects three deputy Speakers, committee heads
The ruling Alliance for European Integration elected three deputy Speakers today. Serafim Urechean, head of the Moldova Noastra [Our Moldova] Alliance, will be first deputy Speaker.
Marcel Raducan (Democratic Party) and Iurie Tap (Liberal Democratic Party) will also be deputy Speakers.
The Party of Communists was supposed to appoint a deputy Speaker, as well, but asked for a break to decide whom to nominate. Later, Communist M.P. Vadim Misin said he was not certain whether the Communist would accept to fill that position.
The legislature also decided on the make-up of the permanent Parliamentary Bureau, which will have 13 members.
Nine legislative committees have also been formed, five of which will be headed by Alliance members, and four by the Communists.
h/t www.azi.md
www.interlic.md
Marcel Raducan (Democratic Party) and Iurie Tap (Liberal Democratic Party) will also be deputy Speakers.
The Party of Communists was supposed to appoint a deputy Speaker, as well, but asked for a break to decide whom to nominate. Later, Communist M.P. Vadim Misin said he was not certain whether the Communist would accept to fill that position.
The legislature also decided on the make-up of the permanent Parliamentary Bureau, which will have 13 members.
Nine legislative committees have also been formed, five of which will be headed by Alliance members, and four by the Communists.
h/t www.azi.md
www.interlic.md
Constitutional Court says election of Speaker Mihai Ghimpu was legal
The Moldovan Constitutional Court ruled against a Party of Communist challenge claiming that the election of Liberal Party head Mihai Ghimpu was illegal.
Mr. Ghimpu will continue exercising his duties.
Mr. Ghimpu will continue exercising his duties.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Moldovan documentary about two children whose parents work abroad continues to win awards
Arrivederci, a Moldovan film about a brother and a sister whose parents work abroad, recently won three prizes at the Berdyansk International Movie Festival: best directing, best image, and the jury's special prize. The latter went to seven-year-old Ion Babenco, one of the subjects of the movie.
Arrivederci has also won the Moscow-based Eurasian Teleforum's Grand Prix in 2008.
h/t www.hotnews.md
h/t www.moldova.org
Arrivederci has also won the Moscow-based Eurasian Teleforum's Grand Prix in 2008.
h/t www.hotnews.md
h/t www.moldova.org
No unification with Romania: Speaker
Newly-elected Speaker Mihai Ghimpu told Russian radio station Echo Moskvi that he will not be promoting Moldova's unification with Romania.
Mr. Ghimpu and the Liberal Party, which he heads, have been accused by some media outlets of wanting Moldova to unify with the neighboring country.
The Speaker admitted that he was a "unionist," but said "I am also a party head. The party has a program, and I have to respect it. The problem is different now. We have two major objectives in our party program: eliminating poverty and integration in the European Union. Integration in the EU means that Moldova will exist as a state."
h/t www.jurnal.md
www.newsin.ro
Mr. Ghimpu and the Liberal Party, which he heads, have been accused by some media outlets of wanting Moldova to unify with the neighboring country.
The Speaker admitted that he was a "unionist," but said "I am also a party head. The party has a program, and I have to respect it. The problem is different now. We have two major objectives in our party program: eliminating poverty and integration in the European Union. Integration in the EU means that Moldova will exist as a state."
h/t www.jurnal.md
www.newsin.ro
NGO asks new legislature to make Russian a state language so that "we don't end up being completely stupid"
The Moldova-Russia International Association for Friendship and Cooperation held a press conference today, asking the new legislature to make Russian an official language in the country. Romanian (called Moldovan in the Constitution) is currently the only official language.
Constantin Munteanu, a Moldovan writer, told the press that the policy is necessary "so that we don't end up being completely stupid." Iurie Maximov, co-President of the Association, also said Russian should be a language for inter-ethnic communication.
Mr. Munteanu added that anyone who does not know Russian literature is "fundamentally stupid."
At one point during the press conference, a few journalists began arguing with the NGO members, asking why Russian speakers do not learn Romanian. "They will, don't worry about it," Mr. Munteanu promised.
The Association members also said that they have had good ties with the former Communist Government, including former Prime Minister Zinaida Greceanii and acting President Vladimir Voronin.
h/t www.jurnal.md
www.protv.md
Constantin Munteanu, a Moldovan writer, told the press that the policy is necessary "so that we don't end up being completely stupid." Iurie Maximov, co-President of the Association, also said Russian should be a language for inter-ethnic communication.
Mr. Munteanu added that anyone who does not know Russian literature is "fundamentally stupid."
At one point during the press conference, a few journalists began arguing with the NGO members, asking why Russian speakers do not learn Romanian. "They will, don't worry about it," Mr. Munteanu promised.
The Association members also said that they have had good ties with the former Communist Government, including former Prime Minister Zinaida Greceanii and acting President Vladimir Voronin.
h/t www.jurnal.md
www.protv.md
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Communist M.P.: Party of Communists will accept direct dialogue with the Alliance
Eduard Musuc, a Communist M.P. in the new legislature, told Radio Free Europe that the Party of Communists (PC) would continue insisting upon holding negotiations with each separate member of the ruling Alliance for European Integration. At the same time, Mr. Musuc added that the PC would also be willing to hold direct negotiations with the Alliance as an entity. The Communists have refused to recognize the existence of the Alliance until now.
The Communist M.P. stressed that his party would like to form a center-left coalition that would include the Democratic Party and the Moldova Noastra [Our Moldova] Alliance. The two parties, which are part of the ruling Alliance, have refused this offer.
Mr. Musuc also warned that if the Alliance continues to "exhibit inflexible behavior," Moldova could have early elections in 2010.
The legislator is referring to the fact that the Communists can technically block the election of the President and therefore cause new elections. The Alliance for European Integration has 53 seats, which is eight short of the 61 it needs to elect a head of state. Those votes can only come from the Party of Communists.
The Communist M.P. stressed that his party would like to form a center-left coalition that would include the Democratic Party and the Moldova Noastra [Our Moldova] Alliance. The two parties, which are part of the ruling Alliance, have refused this offer.
Mr. Musuc also warned that if the Alliance continues to "exhibit inflexible behavior," Moldova could have early elections in 2010.
The legislator is referring to the fact that the Communists can technically block the election of the President and therefore cause new elections. The Alliance for European Integration has 53 seats, which is eight short of the 61 it needs to elect a head of state. Those votes can only come from the Party of Communists.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Alliance member: Fifty-percent chance of early elections
Democratic Party head Marian Lupu, a leading member of the Alliance for European Integration (AEI), told the press that there is a "50-percent chance of early elections" in Moldova.
Mr. Lupu is referring to the uncertainty regarding the Alliance's ability to convince at least eight Communist M.P.s to vote for President. The AEI has 53 seats in the legislature. The head of state can be elected with 61.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Mr. Lupu is referring to the uncertainty regarding the Alliance's ability to convince at least eight Communist M.P.s to vote for President. The AEI has 53 seats in the legislature. The head of state can be elected with 61.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Speaker: We will find more than the eight votes we need to elect a President
Newly-elected Speaker Mihai Ghimpu told Radio France Internationale that the Alliance for European Integration would manage to find more than eight Communist votes to elect a head of state.
The Moldovan Parliament elects the President with 61 votes out of 101. The Alliance only has 53 seats, and the additional support can only come from the Party of Communists.
Mr. Ghimpu added that many Communists would vote for the President because if early elections occur in 2010, "more than half of the Communists in Parliament today will not return to the legislature, so I am convinced that the people who are 47th or 48th, the ones at the bottom of the list, will be in deep thought."
The Party of Communists has 48 M.P.s in the new legislature.
h/t www.unimedia.md
The Moldovan Parliament elects the President with 61 votes out of 101. The Alliance only has 53 seats, and the additional support can only come from the Party of Communists.
Mr. Ghimpu added that many Communists would vote for the President because if early elections occur in 2010, "more than half of the Communists in Parliament today will not return to the legislature, so I am convinced that the people who are 47th or 48th, the ones at the bottom of the list, will be in deep thought."
The Party of Communists has 48 M.P.s in the new legislature.
h/t www.unimedia.md
New Speaker has first official meeting with Western diplomat
Newly-elected Speaker Mihai Ghimpu met Belgian Ambassador to Moldova Leo D'aes on Friday.
Mr. D'aes congratulated Mr. Ghimpu on his appointment, and the two officials spoke about the current social, economic, and political situation in the country.
Mihai Ghimpu's appointment is in limbo, however, after the Party of Communists challenged its legality at the Constitutional Court. The Court is supposed to rule in the next few days.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Mr. D'aes congratulated Mr. Ghimpu on his appointment, and the two officials spoke about the current social, economic, and political situation in the country.
Mihai Ghimpu's appointment is in limbo, however, after the Party of Communists challenged its legality at the Constitutional Court. The Court is supposed to rule in the next few days.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Party of Communists tries to hold legislative session but fails because of lack of quorum
The Party of Communists (PC) showed up to the Palace of the Republic today to hold a legislative session after it left half-way through the Parliament's first meeting on August 28 and said it would return today.
The meeting could not take place, however, because the Communists only have 48 M.P.s, short of a 52-M.P. majority that would have provided a quorum.
The members of the Alliance for European Integration said they would not show up today and set the next meeting for September 10.
Communist M.P. Ivan Calin noted, however, that even if enough M.P.s were present today, the legislature would not have been able to do much until the Constitutional Court rules on the Communist challenge regarding the legality of Mihai Ghimpu's election as a Speaker on August 28.
Mr. Ghimpu was elected after the PC left the building with the votes of the 53 Alliance M.P.s, a move which the Communists said was illegal and unconstitutional.
The Constitutional Court is expected to rule on the challenge in the next few days.
h/t www.unimedia.md for the live broadcast.
The meeting could not take place, however, because the Communists only have 48 M.P.s, short of a 52-M.P. majority that would have provided a quorum.
The members of the Alliance for European Integration said they would not show up today and set the next meeting for September 10.
Communist M.P. Ivan Calin noted, however, that even if enough M.P.s were present today, the legislature would not have been able to do much until the Constitutional Court rules on the Communist challenge regarding the legality of Mihai Ghimpu's election as a Speaker on August 28.
Mr. Ghimpu was elected after the PC left the building with the votes of the 53 Alliance M.P.s, a move which the Communists said was illegal and unconstitutional.
The Constitutional Court is expected to rule on the challenge in the next few days.
h/t www.unimedia.md for the live broadcast.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Why acting President Vladimir Voronin is resigning
Acting President Vladimir Voronin, who is also head of the Party of Communists, announced in a press release yesterday that he will be resigning as President.
It is unclear when he will officially do so, but Mr. Voronin's position as an M.P. does not allow him to simultaneously hold the presidency. Once his deputy mandate is validated on September 14, he will have to decide between the two positions.
Communist M.P. Vladimir Turcan agreed with this interpretation during a statement to the press.
Speaker Mihai Ghimpu will be interim President after Mr. Voronin resigns and until a new head of state is elected by Parliament.
Both the Alliance for European Integration and the Party of Communists do not have enough seats in the legislature to be able to vote in a President by themselves. Considering the bitter conflict between the two, it is unclear if compromise will be reached. If no President is elected, Moldova will have early legislative elections in 2010.
It is unclear when he will officially do so, but Mr. Voronin's position as an M.P. does not allow him to simultaneously hold the presidency. Once his deputy mandate is validated on September 14, he will have to decide between the two positions.
Communist M.P. Vladimir Turcan agreed with this interpretation during a statement to the press.
Speaker Mihai Ghimpu will be interim President after Mr. Voronin resigns and until a new head of state is elected by Parliament.
Both the Alliance for European Integration and the Party of Communists do not have enough seats in the legislature to be able to vote in a President by themselves. Considering the bitter conflict between the two, it is unclear if compromise will be reached. If no President is elected, Moldova will have early legislative elections in 2010.
Ruling Alliance decides to hold another legislative session on September 10
Moldova Noastra head Serafim Urechean told the press today that the ruling Alliance for European Integration, of which his party is a member, has decided to hold another legislative meeting on September 10.
The Parliament has already met twice - on August 28 and September 2. The Party of Communists (PC) left halfway through the first meeting and refused to attend the second one since it considers the meetings to be illegal. On August 28, the PC asked for a break to form its faction and said it would only come to the legislature after the break expires on September 4. The former ruling party also issued a challenge to the Constitutional Court, claiming that Mihai Ghimpu's election as Speaker on August 28 was illegal. The Court is yet to rule on this matter.
Democratic Party M.P. Dumitru Diacov asked on September 2 that the Alliance set up the next session for September 4 in order to allow the Party of Communists to be present, but the Alliance refused to do so.
At this point, the two sides seem reluctant to hold a joint meeting, and some analysts like Arcadie Barbarosie, head of the Institute for Public Policy, have told Imedia that a duality of power may be emerging in Moldova.
h/t www.azi.md
The Parliament has already met twice - on August 28 and September 2. The Party of Communists (PC) left halfway through the first meeting and refused to attend the second one since it considers the meetings to be illegal. On August 28, the PC asked for a break to form its faction and said it would only come to the legislature after the break expires on September 4. The former ruling party also issued a challenge to the Constitutional Court, claiming that Mihai Ghimpu's election as Speaker on August 28 was illegal. The Court is yet to rule on this matter.
Democratic Party M.P. Dumitru Diacov asked on September 2 that the Alliance set up the next session for September 4 in order to allow the Party of Communists to be present, but the Alliance refused to do so.
At this point, the two sides seem reluctant to hold a joint meeting, and some analysts like Arcadie Barbarosie, head of the Institute for Public Policy, have told Imedia that a duality of power may be emerging in Moldova.
h/t www.azi.md
Speaker: Moldova will have a Government by the end of September
Newly-elected Speaker Mihai Ghimpu said during a talkshow on JurnalTV that Moldova will have a Government by the end of September or even earlier.
Mr. Ghimpu denied that Moldova Noastra [Our Moldova] Alliance head Serafim Urechean will be General Prosecutor because "he does not have legal training and there were no talks about this within the Alliance." Moldova Noastra is the smallest member of the Alliance for European Integration and has not gotten one of the three main leadership seats in the country - the President, the Prime Minister, or the Speaker positions.
Earlier, Alliance representatives said that the Liberal Democratic Party would nominate a Prime Ministers, and that the Democrats would run a presidential candidate. The Liberals have gotten the Speaker position since Mr. Ghimpu heads that party.
Mr. Ghimpu denied that Moldova Noastra [Our Moldova] Alliance head Serafim Urechean will be General Prosecutor because "he does not have legal training and there were no talks about this within the Alliance." Moldova Noastra is the smallest member of the Alliance for European Integration and has not gotten one of the three main leadership seats in the country - the President, the Prime Minister, or the Speaker positions.
Earlier, Alliance representatives said that the Liberal Democratic Party would nominate a Prime Ministers, and that the Democrats would run a presidential candidate. The Liberals have gotten the Speaker position since Mr. Ghimpu heads that party.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Party of Communists forms faction
The Party of Communists (PC) officially formed its legislative faction today. It will be headed by former deputy Speaker Maria Postoico.
The PC is the last group to form a faction after the four members of the Alliance for European Integration created theirs during the first meeting of the new legislature last week.
The PC is the last group to form a faction after the four members of the Alliance for European Integration created theirs during the first meeting of the new legislature last week.
President Voronin to resign
The Party of Communists (PC) had a country-wide meeting today, during which President Voronin presented a report about the party's current activities.
At the end of the gathering, Mr. Voronin, who is also PC head, said the following:
"As party President during this critical moment for the Homeland and the party, I do not intend to remain in the rather uncertain and ambiguous situation of acting President. I have no ethical or political basis to formally exercise this position. So, I am going to Parliament as an M.P., in order to stand alongside the party and the faction. I will be with you on the frontlines."
After Mr. Voronin resigns, Speaker Mihai Ghimpu will be the interim head of state until a new one is elected.
It is unclear if the ruling Alliance for European Integration will manage to do so because it is eight votes short of being able to vote in its own candidate. Those eight votes have to come from the Party of Communists, which has been rather reluctant to negotiate.
At the end of the gathering, Mr. Voronin, who is also PC head, said the following:
"As party President during this critical moment for the Homeland and the party, I do not intend to remain in the rather uncertain and ambiguous situation of acting President. I have no ethical or political basis to formally exercise this position. So, I am going to Parliament as an M.P., in order to stand alongside the party and the faction. I will be with you on the frontlines."
After Mr. Voronin resigns, Speaker Mihai Ghimpu will be the interim head of state until a new one is elected.
It is unclear if the ruling Alliance for European Integration will manage to do so because it is eight votes short of being able to vote in its own candidate. Those eight votes have to come from the Party of Communists, which has been rather reluctant to negotiate.
Legislature meets for the second time, Communists refuse to attend
The new legislature held its second meeting today. The Party of Communists refused to show up, saying that it took a ten-day break which expires on September 4.
The Alliance for European Integration asked both the Prime Minister and the head of Moldovan Public Television to come speak in front of the legislature, but both officials refused to do so.
The head of Public Television has been accused of supporting the Communists after he refused to give the Alliance an hour in primetime to speak with the Moldovan people and to broadcast the Parliament's meetings live.
During the meeting, Democrat Dumitru Diacov asked that the Parliament meet again on September 4, which is when the Party of Communists said it would be in attendance. Speaker Mihai Ghimpu rejected the proposal, however, and said the date of the next session will be decided by the Alliance.
h/t www.jurnal.md
The Alliance for European Integration asked both the Prime Minister and the head of Moldovan Public Television to come speak in front of the legislature, but both officials refused to do so.
The head of Public Television has been accused of supporting the Communists after he refused to give the Alliance an hour in primetime to speak with the Moldovan people and to broadcast the Parliament's meetings live.
During the meeting, Democrat Dumitru Diacov asked that the Parliament meet again on September 4, which is when the Party of Communists said it would be in attendance. Speaker Mihai Ghimpu rejected the proposal, however, and said the date of the next session will be decided by the Alliance.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Communists from across the country meet in Chisinau to discuss what to do next
Local members of the Party of Communists (PC), as well as party leaders, will meet in Chisinau today to discuss the PC's political future. The most important decision has to be made regarding whether the PC will vote for a presidential candidate. The Alliance for European Integration is eight seats short of being able to elect a head of state.
The Communists have, however, refused to recognize the existence of the Alliance an an entity and have announced that they will only hold negotiations with individual parties or M.P.s.
h/t www.unimedia.md
The Communists have, however, refused to recognize the existence of the Alliance an an entity and have announced that they will only hold negotiations with individual parties or M.P.s.
h/t www.unimedia.md
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Newly-elected Speaker visits devastated Parliament building to inspect the repair process
Mihai Ghimpu, Moldova's newly-elected Speaker, visited the site of the devastated Parliament building today and went on a tour with the construction site manager. The Parliament and Presidential buildings were devastated during mass disorders on April 7, in the wake of legislative elections on April 5, which ended with an overwhelming Communist victory.
The opposition, which has now become the ruling Alliance for European Integration after repeat elections on July 29, said the elections were stolen.
Mr. Ghimpu said that he would try to reduce repair costs because he didn't want "luxury."
The opposition, which has now become the ruling Alliance for European Integration after repeat elections on July 29, said the elections were stolen.
Mr. Ghimpu said that he would try to reduce repair costs because he didn't want "luxury."
Party of Communists challenges legality of the election of Liberal head for Speaker
The Party of Communists (PC) submitted a challenge to the Constitutional Court today, asking the Court to rule on the legality of the appointment of the new Speaker.
Liberal Party head Mihai Ghimpu was elected Speaker with the 53 votes of the Alliance for European Integration after the Communists left the building, having asked for a ten-day break to form their faction.
PC said that both Parliament procedural rules and the Constitution had not been followed during the election.
The Alliance denies any wrongdoing, and some of its representatives have asked the Constitutional Court to be objective and rule in Mr. Ghimpu's favor. Alliance members have often criticized the Constitutional Court for being biased in favor of the Communists.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Liberal Party head Mihai Ghimpu was elected Speaker with the 53 votes of the Alliance for European Integration after the Communists left the building, having asked for a ten-day break to form their faction.
PC said that both Parliament procedural rules and the Constitution had not been followed during the election.
The Alliance denies any wrongdoing, and some of its representatives have asked the Constitutional Court to be objective and rule in Mr. Ghimpu's favor. Alliance members have often criticized the Constitutional Court for being biased in favor of the Communists.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Romanian Senator to open office in Chisinau
Romanian Senator Viorel Badea, who is responsible for ties with Romanian citizens residing in Moldova, said during a press conference today that he will be opening up an office in Chisinau.
Mr. Badea said the office would help him deal with three main problems: the recovery of Romanian citizenship by Moldovan citizens, the facilitation of the ability of Romanian citizens residing in Moldova to vote in elections, and the education of young Romanians living in Moldova.
The notion of "recovery" of Moldovan citizenship has been a controversial issue in Moldova. Romanian authorities and pro-Romanian groups in Moldova have said that Romanian citizenship was forcefully taken away from people residing in Moldova after the country became part of the Soviet Union after World War II.
Most of what is today the Republic of Moldova, along with parts of Ukraine, was part of Romania between the two world wars.
Communist authorities have harshly criticized the Romanian government's attempts to make getting a Romanian passport easier.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Mr. Badea said the office would help him deal with three main problems: the recovery of Romanian citizenship by Moldovan citizens, the facilitation of the ability of Romanian citizens residing in Moldova to vote in elections, and the education of young Romanians living in Moldova.
The notion of "recovery" of Moldovan citizenship has been a controversial issue in Moldova. Romanian authorities and pro-Romanian groups in Moldova have said that Romanian citizenship was forcefully taken away from people residing in Moldova after the country became part of the Soviet Union after World War II.
Most of what is today the Republic of Moldova, along with parts of Ukraine, was part of Romania between the two world wars.
Communist authorities have harshly criticized the Romanian government's attempts to make getting a Romanian passport easier.
h/t www.jurnal.md
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