Democratic Party head Marian Lupu, the ruling Alliance for European Integration's (AEI) presidential candidate, will be leaving for Moscow tomorrow at the official invitation of the governing United Russia party. Democratic Party head Stela Jantuan told Unimedia that Mr. Lupu would also be meeting with "decision-makers."
In a related news story, Stirea Zilei writes that Communist head and former Presidenti Vladimir Voronin went to Russia today. Sources from the Party of Communists have said that Mr. Voronin may meet with Russian President Dmitri Medvedev.
It is unclear if the two political rivals will cross paths in Moscow. This is a sign, however, that Russia is taking a proactive role in getting involved in the political crisis in Moldova.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration is eight seats short of the 61 votes it needs to elect a head of state. Those votes can only come from the Party of Communists. Although some Communist members have said that they would be willing to vote for a President, Vladimir Voronin has been adamantly against it thus far.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Ruling Alliance M.P.s change law on presidential election
The legislature held a new session today, during which ruling Alliance for European Integration (AEI) M.P.s voted to change the law on the presidential election in the first reading. A second reading is expected to be passed tomorrow.
From now on, elections will be valid even if only one person runs. Previously, the Constitutional Court ruled that at least two candidates needed to be put forth by the legislators.
Candidates can also be registered three days ahead of the election as opposed to five days.
If M.P.s fail to elect a President in two rounds, early legislative elections will be called.
The new law says that early elections can only be held a whole year after the last time the legislature was dissolved, which would theoretically be June 12, 2010.
The ruling Alliance, which is eight votes short of the 61 votes it needs to elect a President, has been scrambling to find a way to get the Party of Communists to vote for a head of state. Although some Communist M.P.s have expressed their willingness to do so, the party leadership, especially Vladimir Voronin, has been adamantly opposed.
Earlier, legislators has to postpone the presidential election initially scheduled for October 23 since only one candidate - the Alliance's Marian Lupu - registered to run.
From now on, elections will be valid even if only one person runs. Previously, the Constitutional Court ruled that at least two candidates needed to be put forth by the legislators.
Candidates can also be registered three days ahead of the election as opposed to five days.
If M.P.s fail to elect a President in two rounds, early legislative elections will be called.
The new law says that early elections can only be held a whole year after the last time the legislature was dissolved, which would theoretically be June 12, 2010.
The ruling Alliance, which is eight votes short of the 61 votes it needs to elect a President, has been scrambling to find a way to get the Party of Communists to vote for a head of state. Although some Communist M.P.s have expressed their willingness to do so, the party leadership, especially Vladimir Voronin, has been adamantly opposed.
Earlier, legislators has to postpone the presidential election initially scheduled for October 23 since only one candidate - the Alliance's Marian Lupu - registered to run.
Convict on the loose in Chisinau
A 26-year old convict escaped from a Chisinau hospital today after being taken there to be treated from tuberculosis.
Earlier in the day, media outlets say, Chisinau was full of police officers, who were looking for him.
The convict's name is Alexandru Panarin. He has not been apprehended yet.
h/t www.jurnal.md
www.stireazilei.md
Earlier in the day, media outlets say, Chisinau was full of police officers, who were looking for him.
The convict's name is Alexandru Panarin. He has not been apprehended yet.
h/t www.jurnal.md
www.stireazilei.md
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Communist M.P.: Democratic Party and Communist representatives met, did not reach agreement
Communist M.P. and former Presidential advisor Mark Tkaciuk told the press that Democratic Party (DP) head Marian Lupu met with Party of Communists (PC) head today to talk about the presidential election. Mr. Lupu is the ruling Alliance for European Integration's candidate. Mr. Voronin has said that he will not vote for Mr. Lupu.
Mr. Tkaciuk said that the meeting did not yield any agreement between the two parties.
„Last week, the PC received an emotional request for friendship and cooperation from the DP, not from the Alliance. Today, representatives from the two parties had a talk over a cut of coffee about this request and analyzed whether such cooperation is possible," Mr. Tkaciuk said during a press conference. "Questions were asked and answers were provided, which do not allow us to have an optimistic attitude toward the continuation of cooperation," Mr. Tkaciuk concluded.
h/t www.hotnews.md
Mr. Tkaciuk said that the meeting did not yield any agreement between the two parties.
„Last week, the PC received an emotional request for friendship and cooperation from the DP, not from the Alliance. Today, representatives from the two parties had a talk over a cut of coffee about this request and analyzed whether such cooperation is possible," Mr. Tkaciuk said during a press conference. "Questions were asked and answers were provided, which do not allow us to have an optimistic attitude toward the continuation of cooperation," Mr. Tkaciuk concluded.
h/t www.hotnews.md
IMF to give Moldova 590 million dollars in the next three years, Communists say the IMF "is not an apolitical organization"
The International Monetary Fund has agreed to give Moldova a 590-million-dollar-loan in installments over the next three years, said Prime Minister Vlad Filat in a press conference on Wednesday.
Chisinau can also use the Special Drawing Rights alloted to it this year, which amount to 180 million U.S. dollars, in order to immediately complement the budget.
Mr. Filat noted that half of the 590 million will go to covering the budget deficit, while the other will be used for the country's currency reserves.
Former Economy Minister and current Communist M.P. Igor Dodon criticized the IMF's decision in a statement to BusinessExpert, accusing it of double standards.
„During our previous negotiations, we [the Party of Communists, which was in power at the time] were told that the IMF would sign an agreement with us only as long as the opposition at the time accepted it. This time, the IMF didn't even meet with the largest parliamentary party [the Communists, who are now in the opposition]. [...] So nobody believes the IMF is an apolitical organization anymore," Mr. Dodon stressed.
The IMF held negotiations with the previous Communist Government earlier this year, but decided to leave before negotiations were officially over after the Communists refused to accept certain IMF conditions.
h/t www.businessexpert.md
Chisinau can also use the Special Drawing Rights alloted to it this year, which amount to 180 million U.S. dollars, in order to immediately complement the budget.
Mr. Filat noted that half of the 590 million will go to covering the budget deficit, while the other will be used for the country's currency reserves.
Former Economy Minister and current Communist M.P. Igor Dodon criticized the IMF's decision in a statement to BusinessExpert, accusing it of double standards.
„During our previous negotiations, we [the Party of Communists, which was in power at the time] were told that the IMF would sign an agreement with us only as long as the opposition at the time accepted it. This time, the IMF didn't even meet with the largest parliamentary party [the Communists, who are now in the opposition]. [...] So nobody believes the IMF is an apolitical organization anymore," Mr. Dodon stressed.
The IMF held negotiations with the previous Communist Government earlier this year, but decided to leave before negotiations were officially over after the Communists refused to accept certain IMF conditions.
h/t www.businessexpert.md
Prime Minister to his cabinet: Stop hanging portraits of officials in your office
Prime Minister Vlad Filat told his cabinet today to stop hanging portraits of officials in their work offices.
”I don't want to hear about this happening anymore. Whoever is in love with the 'leader of the tribe' should show it in a different way, even in the bedroom, if they really want to, but not at work," Mr. Filat added.
Since 2001, when the Communists came to power, most officials put up portraits of Communist leader and former President (2001-2009) Vladimir Voronin in their offices. Anti-Communists criticized this as another sign that Moldova was becoming increasingly authoritarian.
h/t www.unimedia.md
h/t www.stireazilei.md
”I don't want to hear about this happening anymore. Whoever is in love with the 'leader of the tribe' should show it in a different way, even in the bedroom, if they really want to, but not at work," Mr. Filat added.
Since 2001, when the Communists came to power, most officials put up portraits of Communist leader and former President (2001-2009) Vladimir Voronin in their offices. Anti-Communists criticized this as another sign that Moldova was becoming increasingly authoritarian.
h/t www.unimedia.md
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Communist M.P. denies fellow party member's accusations that ruling Alliance threatening Communists with criminal prosecution
Communist M.P. Iurie Stoicov has denied allegations made by his colleague and fellow party member Iurie Munteanu, who said that Party of Communists (PC) deputies are being threatened with criminal prosecution if they refuse to vote for Marian Lupu for President. Mr. Lupu is the ruling Alliance for European Integration's candidate.
Mr. Stoicov said during a television program that he has never received any threats, has never been blackmailed, and that he is not aware of any of his colleagues being subjected to this type of pressure. „These are serious accusations. I do not know what Mr. Munteanu meant to say,” Mr. Stoicov adds.
Mr. Stoicov's statement comes as the Party of Communists is showing increasing signs of internal conflict over the election of the President. A few days ago, Communist M.P. Vladimir Turcan sent a letter to Party of Communists head and former President Vladimir Voronin (2001-2009), asking him to vote for a head of state and thusly avoid early elections. Mr. Voronin has been very reluctant to accept Mr. Turcan's arguments.
In addition, Communist M.P. Victor Stepaniuc has said that he would be willing to vote for a President as long as it was not Mr. Lupu. The Communists have been very critical of Marian Lupu ever since he left them in April 2009, amid rumors that he was unpleased with the fact that the Communist leadership refused to nominate him for President.
The PC nominated then-Prime Minister Zinaida Greceanii instead. Ms. Greceanii received 60 votes during the two election rounds, which was one short of the 61 necessary to elect a President.
Numerous analysts in Chisinau have said that rifts within the PC, which between 2001 and 2009 became notorious for being somewhat of a monolith, have now become visible. Some, like Jurnal de Chisinau's Petru Bogatu, have predicted that the Communists could splinter into a few groups.
The PC also seems to have fallen out of favor with Moscow after Russian President Dmitri Medvedev visited Chisinau during the Commonwealth of Independent States summit earlier in October and met with Marian Lupu. Russian media outlets wrote at the time that Vladimir Voronin had asked for a meeting but that the Russian head of state declined.
Mr. Stoicov said during a television program that he has never received any threats, has never been blackmailed, and that he is not aware of any of his colleagues being subjected to this type of pressure. „These are serious accusations. I do not know what Mr. Munteanu meant to say,” Mr. Stoicov adds.
Mr. Stoicov's statement comes as the Party of Communists is showing increasing signs of internal conflict over the election of the President. A few days ago, Communist M.P. Vladimir Turcan sent a letter to Party of Communists head and former President Vladimir Voronin (2001-2009), asking him to vote for a head of state and thusly avoid early elections. Mr. Voronin has been very reluctant to accept Mr. Turcan's arguments.
In addition, Communist M.P. Victor Stepaniuc has said that he would be willing to vote for a President as long as it was not Mr. Lupu. The Communists have been very critical of Marian Lupu ever since he left them in April 2009, amid rumors that he was unpleased with the fact that the Communist leadership refused to nominate him for President.
The PC nominated then-Prime Minister Zinaida Greceanii instead. Ms. Greceanii received 60 votes during the two election rounds, which was one short of the 61 necessary to elect a President.
Numerous analysts in Chisinau have said that rifts within the PC, which between 2001 and 2009 became notorious for being somewhat of a monolith, have now become visible. Some, like Jurnal de Chisinau's Petru Bogatu, have predicted that the Communists could splinter into a few groups.
The PC also seems to have fallen out of favor with Moscow after Russian President Dmitri Medvedev visited Chisinau during the Commonwealth of Independent States summit earlier in October and met with Marian Lupu. Russian media outlets wrote at the time that Vladimir Voronin had asked for a meeting but that the Russian head of state declined.
Ukrainian authorities invite Moldovan Speaker and interim President Ghimpu to Kiev as the two countries try to mend ties
According to a press release from the Moldovan Parliament, Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu recently met with Ukrainian Ambassador to Chisinau Sergei Pirojkov to talk about “aspects regarding bilateral cooperation relations.”
On behalf of Ukrainian Speaker Vladimir Litvin, Mr. Pirojkov invited Mr. Ghimpu to officially visit Ukraine. The release added that “the officials spoke about their common objectives, like European integration and the resolution of the Transnistrian conflict. Furthermore, the importance of mutual support in the process of European integration and the democratic aspirations of both Moldova and Ukraine were mentioned.”
The ruling Alliance for European Integration has often said that it would like to improve ties with Ukraine after nearly a decade of rather a rocky relationship.
On behalf of Ukrainian Speaker Vladimir Litvin, Mr. Pirojkov invited Mr. Ghimpu to officially visit Ukraine. The release added that “the officials spoke about their common objectives, like European integration and the resolution of the Transnistrian conflict. Furthermore, the importance of mutual support in the process of European integration and the democratic aspirations of both Moldova and Ukraine were mentioned.”
The ruling Alliance for European Integration has often said that it would like to improve ties with Ukraine after nearly a decade of rather a rocky relationship.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Moldova-born Ukrainian to run for President in neighboring country
According to a Kyiv Post news story, Serhii Tigipko, a former head of the Ukrainian National Bank, became an official candidate today for the presidential elections in the neighboring country.
Mr. Tigipko was born in the village of Draganesti (in the Singerei raion).
The Ukrainian presidential elections are scheduled for January 17, 2010.
Mr. Tigipko will be competing against incumbent Viktor Yuschenko, current Prime Minister Yulia Timoshenko, Viktor Yanukovich, and a few others.
Mr. Tigipko was born in the village of Draganesti (in the Singerei raion).
The Ukrainian presidential elections are scheduled for January 17, 2010.
Mr. Tigipko will be competing against incumbent Viktor Yuschenko, current Prime Minister Yulia Timoshenko, Viktor Yanukovich, and a few others.
Communists: Alliance members threatening us with criminal prosecution if we don't vote for a President
ProTV hosted a debate yesterday between Justice Minister and Liberal Democratic M.P. Alexandru Tanase and Communist M.P. Iurie Muntean.
The two mostly spoke about the presidential election. Mr. Tanase stressed that the legislature needs to elect a head of state. The ruling Alliance for European Integration, of which Mr. Tanase is a member, currently holds 53 seats in the legislature, eight short of the 61 votes it needs to vote in a President. Those votes can only come from the Party of Communists, which has been very ambiguous about its willingness to offer up the votes.
At one point during the program, Mr. Muntean said that the ruling Alliance is threatening the Communists with criminal prosecution if they refuse to vote for a President, but stressed that "we are not afraid."
Talks between the Alliance and the Communists have been very tense, and there is a possibility that Moldova will witness early legislative elections in 2010 if the presidential election fails.
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.protv.md
The two mostly spoke about the presidential election. Mr. Tanase stressed that the legislature needs to elect a head of state. The ruling Alliance for European Integration, of which Mr. Tanase is a member, currently holds 53 seats in the legislature, eight short of the 61 votes it needs to vote in a President. Those votes can only come from the Party of Communists, which has been very ambiguous about its willingness to offer up the votes.
At one point during the program, Mr. Muntean said that the ruling Alliance is threatening the Communists with criminal prosecution if they refuse to vote for a President, but stressed that "we are not afraid."
Talks between the Alliance and the Communists have been very tense, and there is a possibility that Moldova will witness early legislative elections in 2010 if the presidential election fails.
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.protv.md
Communists and Alliance members clash during first meeting of committee to investigate April events
Alliance members and Communist M.P.s clashed today during the first meeting of the committee to investigate the April events.
On April 6, a day after the Party of Communists was announced the winner of legislative elections, peaceful protesters came out into the street to demonstrate against the Communists. Protests continued on April 7, but toward the afternoon a group of violent men and women began throwing stones at police officers guarding the Parliament and Presidential buildings, eventually making their way inside and setting fire to a few floors.
On the night of April 7, security forces started a mass repression campaign that ended with the detainment of 700 people and beating and torture of about 300 of them, according to a recent Soros Foundation report.
The legislature recently formed a committee to investigate these events, which held its first meeting today.
During discussions, committee head Vitalie Nagacevschi (Liberal Democrats) clashed with deputy committee head Vadim Misin (Communists) over whether various expert reports and mass media investigations should be included in a report on the April 5 elections. Mr. Misin questioned the validity of these reports.
Anti-Communist parties, which now form the ruling Alliance for European Integration, have accused the Communists of stealing the April 5 elections. That was one of the reasons why they refused to vote for a Communist presidential candidate and pushed for early legislative elections on July 29.
Mr. Nagacevschi also noted that Party of Communists head and former President Vladimir Voronin (2001-2009) may be subject to questioning by the committee. Mr. Voronin was President during the April events.
The next committee meeting will be held on Tuesday at 11 a.m.
h/t www.hotnews.md
www.stireazilei.md
On April 6, a day after the Party of Communists was announced the winner of legislative elections, peaceful protesters came out into the street to demonstrate against the Communists. Protests continued on April 7, but toward the afternoon a group of violent men and women began throwing stones at police officers guarding the Parliament and Presidential buildings, eventually making their way inside and setting fire to a few floors.
On the night of April 7, security forces started a mass repression campaign that ended with the detainment of 700 people and beating and torture of about 300 of them, according to a recent Soros Foundation report.
The legislature recently formed a committee to investigate these events, which held its first meeting today.
During discussions, committee head Vitalie Nagacevschi (Liberal Democrats) clashed with deputy committee head Vadim Misin (Communists) over whether various expert reports and mass media investigations should be included in a report on the April 5 elections. Mr. Misin questioned the validity of these reports.
Anti-Communist parties, which now form the ruling Alliance for European Integration, have accused the Communists of stealing the April 5 elections. That was one of the reasons why they refused to vote for a Communist presidential candidate and pushed for early legislative elections on July 29.
Mr. Nagacevschi also noted that Party of Communists head and former President Vladimir Voronin (2001-2009) may be subject to questioning by the committee. Mr. Voronin was President during the April events.
The next committee meeting will be held on Tuesday at 11 a.m.
h/t www.hotnews.md
www.stireazilei.md
Monday, October 26, 2009
Tokhir Mirzoev new IMF Resident Representative for Moldova
The International Monetary Fund has appointed a new Resident Representative for Moldova. His name is Tokhir Mirzoev. Mr. Mirzoev (b. 1976) has been an economist for the IMF's European Department since 2006. He has also taught in the Department of Economics at the Ohio State University.
Mr. Mirzoev replaces Johan Mathisen, who was the IMF's representative since 2005 until recently.
Mr. Mirzoev replaces Johan Mathisen, who was the IMF's representative since 2005 until recently.
Police officers threaten to organize strikes, say new authorities allowing too many criminal cases to be filed against them
Stirea Zilei and Unimedia write that a group of police officers have threatened to organize strikes tomorrow to protest the fact that the new authorities are allegedly allowing too many criminal cases to be filed against them.
Many police officers were accused of beating and torturing protesters right after the April 7 violent demonstrations in downtown Chisinau. A few deaths were tied to the repression. A recent Soros Foundation report said that about 700 people were detained a few days after April 7, 300 of which were beaten and tortured.
Prosecutor General Valeriu Zubco told Unimedia that he had not heard about the strike, but that he would be meeting tomorrow with police officers suspected of wrongdoing on April 6 and 7. Mr. Zubco stressed that authorities are going to only punish the police officers who were guilty of abuse. He mentioned that thus far there are 31 criminal cases filed against police officers, out of more than 100 complaints.
Ties between reformist governments and security forces have often been tense in the post-Soviet area. In Georgia, President Mikheil Saakashvili dismissed thousands of traffic police officers because of corruption allegations.
In Moldova, security forces have often been accused of being pro-Communist, and relations with the new ruling Alliance have rather rocky thus far.
Many police officers were accused of beating and torturing protesters right after the April 7 violent demonstrations in downtown Chisinau. A few deaths were tied to the repression. A recent Soros Foundation report said that about 700 people were detained a few days after April 7, 300 of which were beaten and tortured.
Prosecutor General Valeriu Zubco told Unimedia that he had not heard about the strike, but that he would be meeting tomorrow with police officers suspected of wrongdoing on April 6 and 7. Mr. Zubco stressed that authorities are going to only punish the police officers who were guilty of abuse. He mentioned that thus far there are 31 criminal cases filed against police officers, out of more than 100 complaints.
Ties between reformist governments and security forces have often been tense in the post-Soviet area. In Georgia, President Mikheil Saakashvili dismissed thousands of traffic police officers because of corruption allegations.
In Moldova, security forces have often been accused of being pro-Communist, and relations with the new ruling Alliance have rather rocky thus far.
Party of European Left: ruling Alliance in Moldova has begun a campaign to limit freedom of expression
The Party of Communists released a press statement today, in which it said that the Party of the European Left (PEL) condemns the ruling Alliance's recent changes to the Broadcasting Code, "the total ignoration of the rights of the opposition in Parliament, substantial changes in social welfare policies, and the lack of continuity in the resolution of the Transnistrian problem."
The Party of the European Left also accuses the ruling coalition of having begun a campaign to limit the freedom of expression in Moldova and stresses that "it is unacceptable for the entire country to become the hostage of the liberal democratic coalition's undemocratic policies."
Imedia has thus far been unable to locate an English-language version released directly by the European Left, and based this report on the Party of Communists press release.
The PEL currently holds a few seats in the European Parliament as part of the European United Left-Nordic Green Left (GUE-NGL) group, which includes the PEL, the Nordic Green Left Alliance, and a few nonaffiliated national parties. The GUE-NGL holds 35 out of 736 seats.
The Party of Communists is a member of the PEL, and two Communists - Irina Vlah and Grigore Petrenco - sit on its Executive Board.
According to the organization's website, the PEL "is anti-capitalist and aims at a transformation of societies beyond the rule of capitalism."
The Party of the European Left also accuses the ruling coalition of having begun a campaign to limit the freedom of expression in Moldova and stresses that "it is unacceptable for the entire country to become the hostage of the liberal democratic coalition's undemocratic policies."
Imedia has thus far been unable to locate an English-language version released directly by the European Left, and based this report on the Party of Communists press release.
The PEL currently holds a few seats in the European Parliament as part of the European United Left-Nordic Green Left (GUE-NGL) group, which includes the PEL, the Nordic Green Left Alliance, and a few nonaffiliated national parties. The GUE-NGL holds 35 out of 736 seats.
The Party of Communists is a member of the PEL, and two Communists - Irina Vlah and Grigore Petrenco - sit on its Executive Board.
According to the organization's website, the PEL "is anti-capitalist and aims at a transformation of societies beyond the rule of capitalism."
Saturday, October 24, 2009
First A(H1N1)-related death registered in Moldova
According to a Health Ministry press release, Moldova registered the first A(H1N1)-related death on October 23, 2009.
A 50-year-old man passed away at the anesthesiology and reanimation department in Chisinau's City Clinic Nr. 1.
The man had apparently returned from Poland on October 10 and was under constant medical surveillance because of the severity of his health problems.
Thus far, Moldovan authorities have identified more than 100 people suspected of suffering from A(H1N1). Slightly more than a dozen of those cases have been confirmed.
A 50-year-old man passed away at the anesthesiology and reanimation department in Chisinau's City Clinic Nr. 1.
The man had apparently returned from Poland on October 10 and was under constant medical surveillance because of the severity of his health problems.
Thus far, Moldovan authorities have identified more than 100 people suspected of suffering from A(H1N1). Slightly more than a dozen of those cases have been confirmed.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Protesters in front of Government building involved in minor scuffle with P.M. Vlad Filat
About 100 protesters, most of them elderly men and women, walked from Chisinau City Hall to the Government building today to ask the cabinet to increase pensions and salaries.
The protests, organized by Salvardare Association head Maia Laguta, started a couple of weeks ago after the Chisinau City Council decided to hike water consumption and public transportation fees, as well as scrap the right of elderly people to use public transportation for free. Chisinau City Hall decided to provide a 70-leu (about seven dollars) subsidy to each elderly person, instead. A one-way trolley trip in Chisinau costs two lei (one dollar is about 11 lei).
The protests became tenser, however, once Prime Minister Vlad Filat stepped out to invite three protester representatives to talks. As Mr. Filat was walking back up the steps to go back to his office, a couple of elderly women tried to grab him. The P.M.s bodyguards pushed the women out of the way. JurnalTV, Stirea Zilei, and ProTV have the footage.
Ms. Laguta said she did not see any protester try to grab Mr. Filat, but stressed that some people may have because "they are hungry."
Previously, protesters assauled mayor Dorin Chirtoaca. On September 29, Mr. Chirtoaca, who stepped out to speak with the demonstrators, 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.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
www.unimedia.md
www.protv.md
The protests, organized by Salvardare Association head Maia Laguta, started a couple of weeks ago after the Chisinau City Council decided to hike water consumption and public transportation fees, as well as scrap the right of elderly people to use public transportation for free. Chisinau City Hall decided to provide a 70-leu (about seven dollars) subsidy to each elderly person, instead. A one-way trolley trip in Chisinau costs two lei (one dollar is about 11 lei).
The protests became tenser, however, once Prime Minister Vlad Filat stepped out to invite three protester representatives to talks. As Mr. Filat was walking back up the steps to go back to his office, a couple of elderly women tried to grab him. The P.M.s bodyguards pushed the women out of the way. JurnalTV, Stirea Zilei, and ProTV have the footage.
Ms. Laguta said she did not see any protester try to grab Mr. Filat, but stressed that some people may have because "they are hungry."
Previously, protesters assauled mayor Dorin Chirtoaca. On September 29, Mr. Chirtoaca, who stepped out to speak with the demonstrators, 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.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
www.unimedia.md
www.protv.md
Unimedia: Communist M.P.s top list of absences from Parliament meetings
Unimedia has an interesting graph, which shows that Communist M.P.s top the list of absences from Parliament meetings.
Party of Communists head and former President (2001-2009) Vladimir Voronin has missed eight out of a total of 12 meetings, followed by Communist M.P.s Igor Dodon and Oleg Reidman.
For a full list of absences, please go here.
Party of Communists head and former President (2001-2009) Vladimir Voronin has missed eight out of a total of 12 meetings, followed by Communist M.P.s Igor Dodon and Oleg Reidman.
For a full list of absences, please go here.
Interim President changes make-up of Supreme Security Council
Interim President and Speaker Mihai Ghimpu signed a decree today to change the make-up of the Supreme Security Council (SSC).
The SSC is an advisory body that informs the President about the national security situation in the country.
Between 2001 and 2009, the ruling Party of Communists was often accused by opposition parties and civil society activists of using the SSC to maintain control over state institutions. The ruling Alliance for European Integration has promised to de-politicize state institutions.
The new council no longer includes representatives from the Anti-Corruption Center and the National Bank.
h/t www.deca.md
www.unimedia.md
The SSC is an advisory body that informs the President about the national security situation in the country.
Between 2001 and 2009, the ruling Party of Communists was often accused by opposition parties and civil society activists of using the SSC to maintain control over state institutions. The ruling Alliance for European Integration has promised to de-politicize state institutions.
The new council no longer includes representatives from the Anti-Corruption Center and the National Bank.
h/t www.deca.md
www.unimedia.md
JurnalTV: another terrorism suspect identified
JurnalTV sources say that a 27-year-old male from the village of Grozavesti, Nisporeni is now suspected of detonating a grenade in downtown Chisinau last Wednesday, which hurt about 40 people.
Those sources, which JurnalTV calls "unofficial," said that authorities found explosives similar to the one detonated downtown at the suspect's household, and that he looks like the sketch police released after getting descriptions from witnesses.
Interior Minister Victor Catan was very vague during a JurnalTV interview about this issue, and said that authorities are investigating the case.
Those sources, which JurnalTV calls "unofficial," said that authorities found explosives similar to the one detonated downtown at the suspect's household, and that he looks like the sketch police released after getting descriptions from witnesses.
Interior Minister Victor Catan was very vague during a JurnalTV interview about this issue, and said that authorities are investigating the case.
P.M. Vlad Filat to make official visit to the United States by year's end
Prime Minister Vlad Filat told the press that he would make an official visit to the United States by the end of the year.
Mr. Filat's statement comes after U.S. Vice President Joe Biden met in Bucharest with Romanian President Traian Basescu, and mentioned Moldova. For a lengthier description of the event, please see an Imedia story here.
The new ruling Alliance for European Integration, which includes Mr. Filat's Liberal Democratic Party, is generally considered to be more pro-European and pro-American than the former ruling Party of Communists. The current coalition is also hoping for loans from the West to help alleviate the economic crisis, which has ravaged some sectors of the economy like construction.
The U.S. has promised to loan Moldova 262 million U.S. dollars in the near future.
Mr. Filat's statement comes after U.S. Vice President Joe Biden met in Bucharest with Romanian President Traian Basescu, and mentioned Moldova. For a lengthier description of the event, please see an Imedia story here.
The new ruling Alliance for European Integration, which includes Mr. Filat's Liberal Democratic Party, is generally considered to be more pro-European and pro-American than the former ruling Party of Communists. The current coalition is also hoping for loans from the West to help alleviate the economic crisis, which has ravaged some sectors of the economy like construction.
The U.S. has promised to loan Moldova 262 million U.S. dollars in the near future.
Parliament postpones presidential election
During an October 22 meeting, Parliament postponed the presidential election, which was initially scheduled for October 23.
M.P.s from the ruling Alliance for European Integration, who have a legislative majority, said they need ten days to propose changes to the law on the election of the head of state in order to eliminate inconsistencies.
The main problem with the current law, Alliance members argued, was that it is not clear whether elections are valid if only one candidate runs. Only the ruling coalition has put forth a candidate - Democratic Party head Marian Lupu. The opposition Party of Communists has refused to do so.
The Alliance could technically nominate another candidate. The Communists did that after non-Communist M.P.s in the legislature elected on April 5 refused to participate in the presidential election. At that time, the 60 Communist M.P.s voted for then-Prime Minister Zinaida Greceanii. Her two contenders - Stanislav Groppa in the first round and Andrei Neguta in the second - received zero votes, which is unprecedented in Moldovan history.
Alliance members said they would not nominate two candidates in order not to humiliate people like the Communists humiliated Mr. Groppa and Mr. Neguta.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
www.interlic.md
M.P.s from the ruling Alliance for European Integration, who have a legislative majority, said they need ten days to propose changes to the law on the election of the head of state in order to eliminate inconsistencies.
The main problem with the current law, Alliance members argued, was that it is not clear whether elections are valid if only one candidate runs. Only the ruling coalition has put forth a candidate - Democratic Party head Marian Lupu. The opposition Party of Communists has refused to do so.
The Alliance could technically nominate another candidate. The Communists did that after non-Communist M.P.s in the legislature elected on April 5 refused to participate in the presidential election. At that time, the 60 Communist M.P.s voted for then-Prime Minister Zinaida Greceanii. Her two contenders - Stanislav Groppa in the first round and Andrei Neguta in the second - received zero votes, which is unprecedented in Moldovan history.
Alliance members said they would not nominate two candidates in order not to humiliate people like the Communists humiliated Mr. Groppa and Mr. Neguta.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
www.interlic.md
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Speaker and interim President: We apologize to the Romanian people for Communist insults
Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu recently told InfoRusia that he would like to apologize to the Romanian people, who he said were insulted by the former ruling Party of Communists (2001-2009).
“They [the Party of Communists] insulted Romanian citizens and Romania as a state. I am sorry and I hope it never happens again. I hope that Moldovan citizens will no longer vote for people who do not know how to value ties between people, between states, who do not recognize their own language, culture, and history," Mr. Ghimpu stressed.
He added that “Romania is not Moldova's neighbor. It is a state that speaks the same language, that has the same culture, the same history, and the same identity. I don't think I will anger anyone by saying that we need very good ties with Romania."
The former ruling Party of Communists has had a very tense relationship with Bucharest since it took power in 2001. The conflict peaked after the April 2009 protests in downtown Chisinau, when Communist head and then-President Vladimir Voronin accused Romania of trying to stage a coup. The Prosecutor General's office later said that Romania has not been involved in the protests "as a country."
At that time, the Romanian Ambassador to Chisinau was also thrown out of the country.
There is a long-standing disagreement in Moldova over whether the language spoken by the majority should be called Romanian or Moldovan (although even Communists acknowledge that the two are essentially indistinguishable) and whether the majority ethnic group should be called Romanian or Moldovan. Generally speaking, the Party of Communists is in the "Moldovan" camp, while many Alliance for European Integration members have said they consider themselves Romanians.
h/t www.hotnews.md
“They [the Party of Communists] insulted Romanian citizens and Romania as a state. I am sorry and I hope it never happens again. I hope that Moldovan citizens will no longer vote for people who do not know how to value ties between people, between states, who do not recognize their own language, culture, and history," Mr. Ghimpu stressed.
He added that “Romania is not Moldova's neighbor. It is a state that speaks the same language, that has the same culture, the same history, and the same identity. I don't think I will anger anyone by saying that we need very good ties with Romania."
The former ruling Party of Communists has had a very tense relationship with Bucharest since it took power in 2001. The conflict peaked after the April 2009 protests in downtown Chisinau, when Communist head and then-President Vladimir Voronin accused Romania of trying to stage a coup. The Prosecutor General's office later said that Romania has not been involved in the protests "as a country."
At that time, the Romanian Ambassador to Chisinau was also thrown out of the country.
There is a long-standing disagreement in Moldova over whether the language spoken by the majority should be called Romanian or Moldovan (although even Communists acknowledge that the two are essentially indistinguishable) and whether the majority ethnic group should be called Romanian or Moldovan. Generally speaking, the Party of Communists is in the "Moldovan" camp, while many Alliance for European Integration members have said they consider themselves Romanians.
h/t www.hotnews.md
Prosecutor General: Victims of April repression need to come forth
The Prosecutor General's office has asked the victims of the April repression to come forth and help authorities identify the security forces that abused their rights. Many of the victims will get subpoenas.
On April 7, after a group a violent protesters stormed the Parliament and Presidential buildings and set some floors ablaze, authorities started a repression campaign that ended with the detention of about 700 people and the torture and beating of about 300, according to a recent Soros Foundation report.
The new authorities have promised to identify the individuals who committed these violations.
h/t www.info-prim.md
On April 7, after a group a violent protesters stormed the Parliament and Presidential buildings and set some floors ablaze, authorities started a repression campaign that ended with the detention of about 700 people and the torture and beating of about 300, according to a recent Soros Foundation report.
The new authorities have promised to identify the individuals who committed these violations.
h/t www.info-prim.md
U.S. Vice President Joe Biden and Romanian President Traian Basescu meet in Bucharest, talk about Moldova
U.S. Vice President Joe Biden was in Romania today during a three-nation tour of Eastern Europe.
During his talks with Romanian President Traian Basescu, Mr. Biden noted that Washington was a supporter of Moldovan democracy and that it wanted to contribute to the stabilization of the Moldovan economy.
"We share a desire that Romania's neighbors, including Moldova, will continue along the path for democracy and ... that they will be integrated into European institutions when they are ready," the American V.P. said during a press conference after the meeting.
Mr. Biden has also spoken with Polish officials and will soon meet with Czech representatives.
U.S. Ambassador to Moldova Asif Chaudhry previously said that his country would offer Moldova a 262-million-dollar loan.
The new ruling Alliance for European Integration is generally perceived to be more pro-Western than the former ruling Party of Communists. It seeks closer ties with the European Union and with NATO.
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.reuters.com
During his talks with Romanian President Traian Basescu, Mr. Biden noted that Washington was a supporter of Moldovan democracy and that it wanted to contribute to the stabilization of the Moldovan economy.
"We share a desire that Romania's neighbors, including Moldova, will continue along the path for democracy and ... that they will be integrated into European institutions when they are ready," the American V.P. said during a press conference after the meeting.
Mr. Biden has also spoken with Polish officials and will soon meet with Czech representatives.
U.S. Ambassador to Moldova Asif Chaudhry previously said that his country would offer Moldova a 262-million-dollar loan.
The new ruling Alliance for European Integration is generally perceived to be more pro-Western than the former ruling Party of Communists. It seeks closer ties with the European Union and with NATO.
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.reuters.com
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
We are now on Facebook
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We are also in the process of moving this site back to www.imedia.md soon.
We are also in the process of moving this site back to www.imedia.md soon.
Press Freedom in Moldova worsened in 2008-2009: Reporters Sans Frontieres
Reporters Sans Frontieres, a well-known mass media organization, recently released its Press Freedom Index 2009, which analyzes press freedom violations that took place between September 1, 2008 and August 31, 2009.
Moldova placed 114th out of 175, between Tajikistan (113) and Sierra Leone (115).
This placement is worse than in previous years, when Moldova placed 98 (2008), 81 (2007), and 85 (2006).
Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Norway, and Sweden had the best media climate this year. North Korea and Eritrea had the worst one.
The full ranking is available here.
The RSF Moldova page, where a few reports on the state of the media in the country are available, can be accessed here.
h/t www.deca.md
Moldova placed 114th out of 175, between Tajikistan (113) and Sierra Leone (115).
This placement is worse than in previous years, when Moldova placed 98 (2008), 81 (2007), and 85 (2006).
Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Norway, and Sweden had the best media climate this year. North Korea and Eritrea had the worst one.
The full ranking is available here.
The RSF Moldova page, where a few reports on the state of the media in the country are available, can be accessed here.
h/t www.deca.md
False bomb threat in Chisinau
The Moldovan Interior Ministry said that authorities received a phone call today saying that something that looked like an explosive material was in front of a building in the Posta Veche neighborhood in Chisinau.
A bomb squad was sent to the location and concluded that no explosives were present.
Chisinau inhabitants have been reeling from a grenade detonation during a concert downtown on Wednesday, which hurt about 40 people. Police have not yet apprehended any suspects, and released the one person that was detained shortly after the explosion.
Bomb threats have become increasingly common in the last year or so, particularly in Chisinau. During this period, such threats were made at the Chisinau airport, at the Press House downtown (where a lot of media outlets have their headquarters), and the Antena C radio station.
In a related news story, the person who recently called in a bomb threat at the Antena C radio station was caught today. He said that he got very drunk and decided to play a joke on the radio station, whose "avid fan" he is.
h/t www.jurnal.md
A bomb squad was sent to the location and concluded that no explosives were present.
Chisinau inhabitants have been reeling from a grenade detonation during a concert downtown on Wednesday, which hurt about 40 people. Police have not yet apprehended any suspects, and released the one person that was detained shortly after the explosion.
Bomb threats have become increasingly common in the last year or so, particularly in Chisinau. During this period, such threats were made at the Chisinau airport, at the Press House downtown (where a lot of media outlets have their headquarters), and the Antena C radio station.
In a related news story, the person who recently called in a bomb threat at the Antena C radio station was caught today. He said that he got very drunk and decided to play a joke on the radio station, whose "avid fan" he is.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Negotiations for resolution of Transnistrian conflict to resume in Vienna on November 6
The so-called "5+2 format" negotiations surrounding the Transnistrian conflict may resume in Vienna on November 6. The format includes Moldova and the breakaway republic of Transnistria as parties to the conflict; Russia, Ukraine, and the OSCE as mediators; and the United States and the European Union as observers.
Negotiators last met in June 2009, after which meetings were suspended.
Moldova fought a short, but bloody, civil war in 1992, as a result of which a separatist republic called Transnistria was formed in the East. Moscow has been rather supportive of the region, particularly because a very large number of inhabitants there speak Russian. Some Russian parties are also active in Transnistria.
h/t www.jurnal.md
www.deca.md
Negotiators last met in June 2009, after which meetings were suspended.
Moldova fought a short, but bloody, civil war in 1992, as a result of which a separatist republic called Transnistria was formed in the East. Moscow has been rather supportive of the region, particularly because a very large number of inhabitants there speak Russian. Some Russian parties are also active in Transnistria.
h/t www.jurnal.md
www.deca.md
Moldova could appoint ambassador to Cuba: Moldovan P.M.
During a meeting with the Cuban Ambassador to Moldova (who resides in Kiev), Prime Minister Vlad Filat said that Chisinau could appoint an Ambassador to Cuba in the near future.
Mr. Filat added that both countries need to sign an Agreement for Commercial and Economic Cooperation as soon as possible, in order to allow bilateral trade to develop.
A short time after former President Vladimir Voronin (2001-2009) took power in Moldova in 2001, he suggested that the country could become "Europe's Cuba." Mr. Voronin toned down his rhetoric afterwards as the Party of Communists began to implement free-market reforms in the country.
h/t www.deca-press.md
Mr. Filat added that both countries need to sign an Agreement for Commercial and Economic Cooperation as soon as possible, in order to allow bilateral trade to develop.
A short time after former President Vladimir Voronin (2001-2009) took power in Moldova in 2001, he suggested that the country could become "Europe's Cuba." Mr. Voronin toned down his rhetoric afterwards as the Party of Communists began to implement free-market reforms in the country.
h/t www.deca-press.md
Terrorism suspect released
ProTV quotes Prosecutor General Valeriu Zubco as saying that authorities have released the person suspected of detonating a grenade during a City Day concert in downtown Chisinau last Wednesday. About 40 people were hurt.
Mr. Zubco noted that police had no evidence proving the suspect had committed the crime and that the young man had a strong alibi. Authorities have called the detonation a "terrorist" act and are now looking for other suspects.
The search has been very difficult because the attack happened at night, in the middle of hundreds of people. A few witnesses noted that the man who threw the grenade fired a few gunshots, threw the grenade, and then ran away. He was dressed in dark clothing. No other details seem to be available.
Thus far, authorities have refrained from making political statements about the act, despite the fact that analysts like Igor Botan have suggested that the terrorist attack could have political consequences.
h/t www.unimedia.md
Mr. Zubco noted that police had no evidence proving the suspect had committed the crime and that the young man had a strong alibi. Authorities have called the detonation a "terrorist" act and are now looking for other suspects.
The search has been very difficult because the attack happened at night, in the middle of hundreds of people. A few witnesses noted that the man who threw the grenade fired a few gunshots, threw the grenade, and then ran away. He was dressed in dark clothing. No other details seem to be available.
Thus far, authorities have refrained from making political statements about the act, despite the fact that analysts like Igor Botan have suggested that the terrorist attack could have political consequences.
h/t www.unimedia.md
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Romania to open two more consulates in Moldova
Romania will soon open two more consulates in Moldova. They will most likely be located in Cahul (in the south) and Balti (in the north).
Currently, Romania has only one consulate in Chisinau, which has become notorious for its long lines. Hundreds of Moldovans are often at its front doors, looking to get visas to travel to Romania. Some sleep on the lawn in front of the consulate because they travel from far away.
Communist authorities always refused to allow Romania to open up more consulates in the country. The new Government has been much more willing to do so.
Moldovan officials also announced that Moldova will open another consulate in Romania, as well, most likely in the city of Iasi, which is right at the border with Moldova.
h/t www.hotnews.md
Currently, Romania has only one consulate in Chisinau, which has become notorious for its long lines. Hundreds of Moldovans are often at its front doors, looking to get visas to travel to Romania. Some sleep on the lawn in front of the consulate because they travel from far away.
Communist authorities always refused to allow Romania to open up more consulates in the country. The new Government has been much more willing to do so.
Moldovan officials also announced that Moldova will open another consulate in Romania, as well, most likely in the city of Iasi, which is right at the border with Moldova.
h/t www.hotnews.md
Russia bans powdered milk imports from Moldova, says it has "prohibited and harmful substances"
Russia's agricultural regulator Rosselkhoznadzor announced that it would ban powdered milk imports from Moldova because the product contains "prohibited and harmful substances."
Moldovan officials or milk businesses have not yet commented on this move.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Moldovan officials or milk businesses have not yet commented on this move.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Romania and Moldova finish negotiations on small-scale border population flow agreement
Romanian and Moldovan officials announced that negotiations for a small-scale border population flow agreement between the two countries have come to an end.
Moldovan Prime Minister Vlad Filat said he would be willing to go to Romania as soon as possible to sign the agreement. Foreign Minister Iurie Leanca has already approved it on the Moldovan side.
One of the most important provisions in the new agreement is that about one million Moldovans from 11 raions that are near the Romanian border could travel to the neighboring country without a visa. Currently, Moldovan citizens need visas to visit any EU member.
The project of the agreement was proposed in 2007, but Communist authorities refused to sign it until Romania accepted to sign a baseline treaty and a border agreement with Moldova.
The Liberal Democratic Party, which Mr. Filat heads, was a relatively new party at the time, and made a name for itself by pushing for the signing of this agreement. Mr. Filat insisted on getting this measure approved as soon as he became P.M.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Moldovan Prime Minister Vlad Filat said he would be willing to go to Romania as soon as possible to sign the agreement. Foreign Minister Iurie Leanca has already approved it on the Moldovan side.
One of the most important provisions in the new agreement is that about one million Moldovans from 11 raions that are near the Romanian border could travel to the neighboring country without a visa. Currently, Moldovan citizens need visas to visit any EU member.
The project of the agreement was proposed in 2007, but Communist authorities refused to sign it until Romania accepted to sign a baseline treaty and a border agreement with Moldova.
The Liberal Democratic Party, which Mr. Filat heads, was a relatively new party at the time, and made a name for itself by pushing for the signing of this agreement. Mr. Filat insisted on getting this measure approved as soon as he became P.M.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Parliament creates committee to investigate events in April
Parliament has created a committee to investigate the April events that unfolded in Moldova, when a group of violent protesters set a few floors of the Parliament and Presidential buildings on fire on April 7. Heavy repression followed after this event. At least three deaths have been tied to the repression. For more background on the events, see here.
Vitalie Nagacevschi, a well-known civil rights lawyer who recently became a Liberal Democratic Party M.P. will head the committee.
h/t www.moldova.org
Vitalie Nagacevschi, a well-known civil rights lawyer who recently became a Liberal Democratic Party M.P. will head the committee.
h/t www.moldova.org
Monday, October 19, 2009
Democratic Party honorary head: Communists tried to get us to form an alliance with them and another party
Democratic Party honorary head Dumitru Diacov held a press conference today during which he revealed that he met with Party of Communists head Vladimir Voronin four times in the last few weeks.
Mr. Diacov said that during these meetings he tried to convince Mr. Voronin to vote for Democratic Party head Marian Lupu, the Alliance's presidential candidate.
Mr. Diacov also noted that the Communist head asked the Democrats to form a coalition with the Communists and another party, whose name Mr. Diacov refused to reveal. The Democratic Party refused this offer, Dumitru Diacov stressed.
The Democrat emphasized that about 16-17 Communists in the 48-person Communist faction in the legislature want to vote for Mr. Lupu, but are not allowed to do so because of party discipline.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration is eight votes short of the 61 it needs to elect a head of state. Those votes can only come from the Communists. Party of Communists officials have been generally reluctant to vote for a President, although some of its M.P.s, like Vladimir Turcan, have begun to be more vocal about the need to vote for Mr. Lupu.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Mr. Diacov said that during these meetings he tried to convince Mr. Voronin to vote for Democratic Party head Marian Lupu, the Alliance's presidential candidate.
Mr. Diacov also noted that the Communist head asked the Democrats to form a coalition with the Communists and another party, whose name Mr. Diacov refused to reveal. The Democratic Party refused this offer, Dumitru Diacov stressed.
The Democrat emphasized that about 16-17 Communists in the 48-person Communist faction in the legislature want to vote for Mr. Lupu, but are not allowed to do so because of party discipline.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration is eight votes short of the 61 it needs to elect a head of state. Those votes can only come from the Communists. Party of Communists officials have been generally reluctant to vote for a President, although some of its M.P.s, like Vladimir Turcan, have begun to be more vocal about the need to vote for Mr. Lupu.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Elderly protests to be resumed
Maia Laguta, head of the Salvgardare Association and organizer of the elderly protests in the last few weeks in downtown Chisinau, announced during a press conference today that protests will resume.
The elderly are protesting a Chisinau city council decision to hike water consumption and public transportation fees, and to get rid of free public transportation for retirees.
At the beginning of the protests a few weeks ago, Chisinay mayor Dorin Chirtoaca was assaulted by the protesters after he stepped out to talk to them.
The elderly are protesting a Chisinau city council decision to hike water consumption and public transportation fees, and to get rid of free public transportation for retirees.
At the beginning of the protests a few weeks ago, Chisinay mayor Dorin Chirtoaca was assaulted by the protesters after he stepped out to talk to them.
Prosecutor's Office asks for help from Council of Europe to investigate death of young man after the April 7 protests
On April 5, 2009, as legislative election returns showed that the Party of Communists had scored another victory, cell phones and internet chat rooms were abuzz with messages calling for anti-Communist protests in downtown Chisinau.
On April 6, a few non-governmental organizations held a peaceful rally, which continued with larger crowds on April 7. Toward the afternoon on April 7, however, a group of protesters began throwing stones at police officers in front of the Parliament and Presidential buildings, and eventually made their way into the institutions and set numerous floors on fire.
On the evening of April 7, security forces began a massive repression campaign. Over 700 people were detained in the next couple of days, and a Soros Foundation report published recently said that over 300 of those, mostly young men and women, were beaten and tortured. Some had not even attended the protests.
The deaths of at least three young men have been tied to the repression. The case of Valeriu Boboc is the most well-known, in part because media outlets managed to take a picture of his face, which shows a large dent at the top of his head. The picture even made its way into the front pages of large Romanian dailies like Evenimentul Zilei. Autopsy reports, including ones done by foreign experts, indicated that Mr. Boboc, a husband and a father of a young child, was beaten to death. Moldovan authorities initially said, however, that the young man had died from intoxication with gas.
The new Government has promised to begin thorough investigations into the behavior of the security forces after the April 7 protests and recently called for help from the Council of Europe to ensure the presence of the British expert who performed Mr. Boboc's autopsy and concluded that the young man died because of head injuries.
h/t www.voceabasarabiei.net
On April 6, a few non-governmental organizations held a peaceful rally, which continued with larger crowds on April 7. Toward the afternoon on April 7, however, a group of protesters began throwing stones at police officers in front of the Parliament and Presidential buildings, and eventually made their way into the institutions and set numerous floors on fire.
On the evening of April 7, security forces began a massive repression campaign. Over 700 people were detained in the next couple of days, and a Soros Foundation report published recently said that over 300 of those, mostly young men and women, were beaten and tortured. Some had not even attended the protests.
The deaths of at least three young men have been tied to the repression. The case of Valeriu Boboc is the most well-known, in part because media outlets managed to take a picture of his face, which shows a large dent at the top of his head. The picture even made its way into the front pages of large Romanian dailies like Evenimentul Zilei. Autopsy reports, including ones done by foreign experts, indicated that Mr. Boboc, a husband and a father of a young child, was beaten to death. Moldovan authorities initially said, however, that the young man had died from intoxication with gas.
The new Government has promised to begin thorough investigations into the behavior of the security forces after the April 7 protests and recently called for help from the Council of Europe to ensure the presence of the British expert who performed Mr. Boboc's autopsy and concluded that the young man died because of head injuries.
h/t www.voceabasarabiei.net
Bomb threat at Chisinau radio station
An unknown person recently called the Antena C radio station and threatened to place a bomb in the station's headquarters soon.
Police are investigating the case.
In the last few months, the Chisinau airport, the Press House, and other buildings in Chisinau have gotten bomb threats and were evacuated as a result.
In addition, a grenade was detonated in the crowd last Wednesday during a City Day concert. About 40 people were hurt. Police have apprehended one suspect and have said that they are looking for more.
Antena C was the city hall-run radio station until 2007, when it was privatized by Communist authorities and their Christian Democratic allies. Experts and media organizations said at the time that the station was sold to a pro-Communist businessperson. Monitoring reports since privatization have established that Antena C has mostly positive coverage of the Communists and mostly critical coverage of other parties.
h/t www.unimedia.md
Police are investigating the case.
In the last few months, the Chisinau airport, the Press House, and other buildings in Chisinau have gotten bomb threats and were evacuated as a result.
In addition, a grenade was detonated in the crowd last Wednesday during a City Day concert. About 40 people were hurt. Police have apprehended one suspect and have said that they are looking for more.
Antena C was the city hall-run radio station until 2007, when it was privatized by Communist authorities and their Christian Democratic allies. Experts and media organizations said at the time that the station was sold to a pro-Communist businessperson. Monitoring reports since privatization have established that Antena C has mostly positive coverage of the Communists and mostly critical coverage of other parties.
h/t www.unimedia.md
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Presidential election set for October 23 will most likely be postponed because only one person was nominated
A few weeks ago, Parliament, which picks the head of state in Moldova, set the presidential election for October 23, 2009.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration nominated Democratic Party head Marian Lupu. The opposition Party of Communists refused to put forth a candidate.
Considering the fact that at least two people need to run for president, the October 23 election will most likely be rescheduled for a later date.
Alliance leaders seem to have refused to nominate a second person, like the Party of Communists did after the April 5 elections. At that time, the opposition refused to put forth a candidate, as a result of which the Communists nominated two people: then-Prime Minister Zinaida Greceanii and Stanislav Groppa during the first round, and Ms. Greceanii and Andrei Neguta during the second round.
Ms. Greceanii received all 60 Communist votes in the legislature each time, which led to an unprecedented phenomenon in Moldova: Mr. Groppa and Mr. Neguta ran for President but received zero votes. The press said at the time that the two candidates, especially Mr. Groppa, who was more of an apolitical candidate, had been humiliated by the Communists because they accepted to be nominated but the Communists refused to vote for them.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
The ruling Alliance for European Integration nominated Democratic Party head Marian Lupu. The opposition Party of Communists refused to put forth a candidate.
Considering the fact that at least two people need to run for president, the October 23 election will most likely be rescheduled for a later date.
Alliance leaders seem to have refused to nominate a second person, like the Party of Communists did after the April 5 elections. At that time, the opposition refused to put forth a candidate, as a result of which the Communists nominated two people: then-Prime Minister Zinaida Greceanii and Stanislav Groppa during the first round, and Ms. Greceanii and Andrei Neguta during the second round.
Ms. Greceanii received all 60 Communist votes in the legislature each time, which led to an unprecedented phenomenon in Moldova: Mr. Groppa and Mr. Neguta ran for President but received zero votes. The press said at the time that the two candidates, especially Mr. Groppa, who was more of an apolitical candidate, had been humiliated by the Communists because they accepted to be nominated but the Communists refused to vote for them.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Police apprehends terrorism suspect
Unimedia has just posted a transcript of an interview with Interior Minister Victor Catan, who said that the terrorism suspect has been apprehended by Moldovan police.
The man is accused of throwing a grenade into the crowd during a concert in downtown Chisinau on Wednesday night. About 40 people were hurt as a result.
More coming soon.
The man is accused of throwing a grenade into the crowd during a concert in downtown Chisinau on Wednesday night. About 40 people were hurt as a result.
More coming soon.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Police have sketch of man who allegedly threw grenade into crowd during concert in downtown Chisinau
Police now have a sketch of the man who allegedly threw a grenade into the crowd during a concert in downtown Chisinau on Wednesday.
The picture can be seen here.
Interior Minister Victor Catan said that authorities know the person's name, as well, but refused to reveal it in order not to hurt the investigation.
The person is 23 years old, about 1.7 meters tall. He wore a dark greek jacket and black jeans on the night of the explosion. Witnesses have been asked to come forth if they know this person.
Authorities have not offered a lot of other details about the investigation. They have, however, said that the explosion was a "terrorist attack," which would be a first for Moldova.
h/t www.jurnal.md
www.stireazilei.md
The picture can be seen here.
Interior Minister Victor Catan said that authorities know the person's name, as well, but refused to reveal it in order not to hurt the investigation.
The person is 23 years old, about 1.7 meters tall. He wore a dark greek jacket and black jeans on the night of the explosion. Witnesses have been asked to come forth if they know this person.
Authorities have not offered a lot of other details about the investigation. They have, however, said that the explosion was a "terrorist attack," which would be a first for Moldova.
h/t www.jurnal.md
www.stireazilei.md
Divisions in Party of Communists about election of head of state becoming more visible
For the last few weeks, the Party of Communists (PC) has sent a series of mixed signals about its willingness to vote for a President. The ruling Alliance for European Integration, which holds a thin 53-seat majority in the legislature, needs at least eight Communist votes to be able to elect a head of state.
Yesterday, however, a rift seems to have appeared within the PC, as Communist M.P. Vladimir Turcan said he sent a letter to PC head and former President Vladimir Voronin (2001-2009), in which he talked about the social and political situation in the country, as well as about the election of the head of state. The general message of the letter is that the PC should seriously consider voting for a President.
Mr. Turcan told the press that a group of Communist M.P.s share his viewpoint.
Communist M.P. Victor Stepaniuc has also noted that there is some disagreement within the PC about the election of the head of state.
On the other hand, Communist M.P. Grigore Petrenco told the press that there is unanimous agreement in the PC that the Communists should not vote for a President.
The first presidential election is scheduled for October 23. A second round will be organized if the first round fails. If legislators fail to elect a head of state, early elections will be called in 2010.
h/t www.jurnal.md
www.stireazilei.md
Yesterday, however, a rift seems to have appeared within the PC, as Communist M.P. Vladimir Turcan said he sent a letter to PC head and former President Vladimir Voronin (2001-2009), in which he talked about the social and political situation in the country, as well as about the election of the head of state. The general message of the letter is that the PC should seriously consider voting for a President.
Mr. Turcan told the press that a group of Communist M.P.s share his viewpoint.
Communist M.P. Victor Stepaniuc has also noted that there is some disagreement within the PC about the election of the head of state.
On the other hand, Communist M.P. Grigore Petrenco told the press that there is unanimous agreement in the PC that the Communists should not vote for a President.
The first presidential election is scheduled for October 23. A second round will be organized if the first round fails. If legislators fail to elect a head of state, early elections will be called in 2010.
h/t www.jurnal.md
www.stireazilei.md
EU Council head meets P.M. Vlad Filat, negotiations for Moldova-EU Agreement begin
Swedish Foreign Minister and European Union Council head Carl Bildt met with Moldovan Prime Minister Vlad Filat today.
Mr. Bildt said that the EU would like to start negotiations for an association agreement with Moldova that will be more "ambitious" than the previous one.
According to Mr. Filat, this agreement will include three major elements: a political agreement, especially when it comes to EU help for the resolution of the Transnistrian crisis; a free trade exchange agreement; and a liberalized visa regime.
At the moment, Moldovan citizens need visas to travel to any European Union country. The process of receiving visas often takes at least a few days and several trips to embassies in Chisinau if the country has a diplomatic office in the country, or to Bucharest, Moscow, or Kiev if there is no embassy in Chisinau.
Moldovan media outlets and analysts are saying that this new agreement is a first step toward Moldova's integration into the European Union.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Mr. Bildt said that the EU would like to start negotiations for an association agreement with Moldova that will be more "ambitious" than the previous one.
According to Mr. Filat, this agreement will include three major elements: a political agreement, especially when it comes to EU help for the resolution of the Transnistrian crisis; a free trade exchange agreement; and a liberalized visa regime.
At the moment, Moldovan citizens need visas to travel to any European Union country. The process of receiving visas often takes at least a few days and several trips to embassies in Chisinau if the country has a diplomatic office in the country, or to Bucharest, Moscow, or Kiev if there is no embassy in Chisinau.
Moldovan media outlets and analysts are saying that this new agreement is a first step toward Moldova's integration into the European Union.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Thursday, October 15, 2009
EU officials to visit Moldova
Officials from the European Union will be visiting Chisinau tomorrow. Swedish Foreign Minister Karl Bildt, whose country heads the EU at the moment, will meet with P.M. Vlad Filat, Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu, deputy Speaker Serafim Urechean, Democratic Party head Marian Lupu (who is also the ruling Alliance's presidential candidate), and Party of Communists head Vladimir Voronin.
The officials will talk about deepening ties between the EU and Moldova.
h/t www.jurnaltv.md
The officials will talk about deepening ties between the EU and Moldova.
h/t www.jurnaltv.md
Prime Minister Vlad Filat met with Communist head Vladimir Voronin
Prime Minister Vlad Filat met with Party of Communists (PC) head and former President (2001-2009) Vladimir Voronin yesterday.
Mr. Filat said that the two exchanged opinions about recent events in Moldova and expressed his hope that dialogue would continue.
Thus far, political parties in Moldova have generally refrained from making political statements about the grenade explosion in downtown Chisinau yesterday, which hurt about 40 people.
h/t www.unimedia.md
Mr. Filat said that the two exchanged opinions about recent events in Moldova and expressed his hope that dialogue would continue.
Thus far, political parties in Moldova have generally refrained from making political statements about the grenade explosion in downtown Chisinau yesterday, which hurt about 40 people.
h/t www.unimedia.md
Prosecutor General: person who detonated a grenade in downtown Chisinau has been identified
Prosecutor General Valeriu Zubco told the press that the person who detonated a grenade during a concert in downtown Chisinau yesterday has been identified.
Mr. Zubco refused to provide other details in order not to harm the investigation.
In other news, Chisinau mayor Dorin Chirtoaca asked that the people who were affected by the explosion be given psychological counseling.
Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu will speak to the Moldovan people tonight to ask for calm.
Mr. Zubco refused to provide other details in order not to harm the investigation.
In other news, Chisinau mayor Dorin Chirtoaca asked that the people who were affected by the explosion be given psychological counseling.
Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu will speak to the Moldovan people tonight to ask for calm.
Security forces holding press conference right now
Imedia is live-blogging a press conference by security force representatives.
Prosecutor General says there is reasonable suspicion that a terrorist act took place.
Update (11.25 a.m.) - there are suspects. One of the victims saw the person who committed the act.
Update (11.26 a.m.) - Prosecutor General now using the term "terrorist attack" to describe the explosion yesterday.
Update (11.27 a.m.) - Prime Minister was "physically threatened" on the phone, as was the current Government. This happened at about the same time as the explosion.
Update (11.30 a.m.) - One hand grenade was detonated. It was an offensive Soviet-made grenade, which doesn't create a lot of damage, which is probably why there were no casualties. Moldovans still have a lot of weapons left over since the civil war in 1992.
Update (11.32 a.m.) - Is there a connection between Communist head and former President Vladimir Voronin's threat against P.M. Vlad Filat and the detonation? Interion Minister Catan says that Mr. Filat spoke with Mr. Voronin, and both agreed not to make statements that will lead to instability.
Mr. Voronin threatened to "deal with" Mr. Filat during a legislative meeting a few weeks ago.
Update (11.43 a.m.) - Authorities have initiated talks with Transnistrian authorities. One of the hypotheses is that the attack may have been planned from the breakaway region.
Update (11.47 a.m.) - No Moldovan parties would be interested in organizing a terrorist attack, but there are some groups and foreign forces who are against the new Government.
Update (11.50 a.m.) - The man who threatened to detonate a grenade in front of the Prosecuror's Office wants his son released from prison because he says he has been wrongfully accused. There is no connection with what happened in the Square.
Update (11.54 a.m.) - The man apparently bought the grenade, and was even offered a more destructive one.
Update (12.02 p.m.) - The press conference is over.
Prosecutor General says there is reasonable suspicion that a terrorist act took place.
Update (11.25 a.m.) - there are suspects. One of the victims saw the person who committed the act.
Update (11.26 a.m.) - Prosecutor General now using the term "terrorist attack" to describe the explosion yesterday.
Update (11.27 a.m.) - Prime Minister was "physically threatened" on the phone, as was the current Government. This happened at about the same time as the explosion.
Update (11.30 a.m.) - One hand grenade was detonated. It was an offensive Soviet-made grenade, which doesn't create a lot of damage, which is probably why there were no casualties. Moldovans still have a lot of weapons left over since the civil war in 1992.
Update (11.32 a.m.) - Is there a connection between Communist head and former President Vladimir Voronin's threat against P.M. Vlad Filat and the detonation? Interion Minister Catan says that Mr. Filat spoke with Mr. Voronin, and both agreed not to make statements that will lead to instability.
Mr. Voronin threatened to "deal with" Mr. Filat during a legislative meeting a few weeks ago.
Update (11.43 a.m.) - Authorities have initiated talks with Transnistrian authorities. One of the hypotheses is that the attack may have been planned from the breakaway region.
Update (11.47 a.m.) - No Moldovan parties would be interested in organizing a terrorist attack, but there are some groups and foreign forces who are against the new Government.
Update (11.50 a.m.) - The man who threatened to detonate a grenade in front of the Prosecuror's Office wants his son released from prison because he says he has been wrongfully accused. There is no connection with what happened in the Square.
Update (11.54 a.m.) - The man apparently bought the grenade, and was even offered a more destructive one.
Update (12.02 p.m.) - The press conference is over.
Update, man threatening to detonate a grenade in front of Prosecutor's Office
Update: mayor Dorin Chirtoaca is at the Prosecutor's Office right now.
The man seems to have gone inside the Prosecutor's Office. City police said he was convinced to give away his grenade.
More to follow.
The man seems to have gone inside the Prosecutor's Office. City police said he was convinced to give away his grenade.
More to follow.
Man allegedly holding a grenade in front of Prosecutor General's office, threatening to detonate it
JurnalTV is broadcasting live from the site of the Prosecutor General's office, where a man allegedly holding a grenade is threatening to detonate it.
Police officers can be seen talking to him. The man looks middle-aged.
Police officers can be seen talking to him. The man looks middle-aged.
Moldovan Prime Minister received "physical threats" on the night of the explosion
Government spokesperson Igor Volnitchi told the press that on the night the explosion took place in Chisinau, P.M. Vlad Filat received two anonymous telephone calls making "physical threats" against him.
Police are investigating this case, and whether there is a connection between the threats and the explosion.
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.stireazilei.md
Police are investigating this case, and whether there is a connection between the threats and the explosion.
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.stireazilei.md
Police has no suspects yet
Ala Meleca, Interior Ministry spokesperson, told JurnalTV that the police do not have any suspects yet in reference to the explosion that occurred during a concert yesterday.
This morning, police officers were still investigating the site of the explosion. Blood stains and articles of clothing were visible on the ground.
This morning, police officers were still investigating the site of the explosion. Blood stains and articles of clothing were visible on the ground.
More details about source of explosion
Police say that the source of the grenade was a half-kilogram offensive grenade.
Investigations are underway.
Witnesses said that they saw a man dressed in black shoot a few times out of a gun of some sort and then throw the grenade at the crowd. The man then ran away.
Media outlets are now beginning to show footage they took at the hospital. Over 40 people have suffered limb and head injuries. A few are in serious condition.
More to follow.
Investigations are underway.
Witnesses said that they saw a man dressed in black shoot a few times out of a gun of some sort and then throw the grenade at the crowd. The man then ran away.
Media outlets are now beginning to show footage they took at the hospital. Over 40 people have suffered limb and head injuries. A few are in serious condition.
More to follow.
Posting resumes for a couple of hours - we're waiting for officials to make statements
We will be reporting for another couple of hours since it's 7 a.m. in Chisinau and officials should begin making comments soon. Please stay tuned.
We're stopping reports for the day, will come back with details tomorrow
Most officials seem to have begun investigations and are no longer giving the press many details. Reporters on JurnalTV are now speaking about some shocking injuries they witnessed at the hospital.
We will return tomorrow with details.
We will return tomorrow with details.
JurnalTV reports: over 40 victims as a result of explosion in Chisinau
JurnalTV reporter Oleg Brega just returned from the emergency hospital and said that doctors have now raised the number of victims of the explosion to over 40. All are in stable condition.
Chisinau mayor speaking live on JurnalTV, Imedia will be live-blogging
Mr. Chirtoaca just arrived in the studio.
Update (2.45 a.m.): Unclear if explosion was a terrorist attack.
Update (2.47 a.m.): Relatives of victims have been contacted. Some of them are at the emergency hospital.
Update (2.49 a.m.): Mayor refuses to offer any hypotheses about who may have caused the explosion. He does say, however, that the explosion was most likely not an accident.
Update (2.50 a.m.): Police officers and security forces have been cooperative despite conflicts with the mayor in the past.
Update (2.52 a.m.): Mayor says there was no indication or threat about a possible terrorist attack or explosion during the day.
Update (2.53 a.m.): The JurnalTV reporter keeps trying to get Mr. Chirtoaca to offer hypotheses about who might have been the author of the explosion. The mayor refuses to do so.
Update (2.55 a.m.): Mayor tells Chisinau residents that he has repeatedly asked for non-violence and peace. The interview is over.
Update (2.45 a.m.): Unclear if explosion was a terrorist attack.
Update (2.47 a.m.): Relatives of victims have been contacted. Some of them are at the emergency hospital.
Update (2.49 a.m.): Mayor refuses to offer any hypotheses about who may have caused the explosion. He does say, however, that the explosion was most likely not an accident.
Update (2.50 a.m.): Police officers and security forces have been cooperative despite conflicts with the mayor in the past.
Update (2.52 a.m.): Mayor says there was no indication or threat about a possible terrorist attack or explosion during the day.
Update (2.53 a.m.): The JurnalTV reporter keeps trying to get Mr. Chirtoaca to offer hypotheses about who might have been the author of the explosion. The mayor refuses to do so.
Update (2.55 a.m.): Mayor tells Chisinau residents that he has repeatedly asked for non-violence and peace. The interview is over.
JurnalTV live-streaming from the Square, doing a live interview with a reporter who was at the emergency hospital
JurnalTV.md live-streaming from the Square, doing a live interview with a reporter who was at the emergency hospital
Update, explosion in Chisinau, 32 hurt (2.27 a.m. Chisinau time)
JurnalTV is live-streaming from downtown Chisinau right now. Moldovan police have cordoned off the area in which the explosion took place and have tagged pieces of shrapnel from the grenade explosion.
Realitatea TV reports that between 5,000 and 10,000 people are normally in downtown Chisinau during concerts. Footage from the event shows large crowds of people in the area.
The grenade was placed in the crowd, in what looks like a black leather bag. Police have refused to say whether any suspects are being interrogated.
Officials have said that the explosion could have been a terrorist attack, which has rarely, if ever, happened in Moldova.
At least 32 people were hurt as a result of the explosion. Some eye-witnesses have said that some of the victims were badly hurt.
Realitatea TV reports that between 5,000 and 10,000 people are normally in downtown Chisinau during concerts. Footage from the event shows large crowds of people in the area.
The grenade was placed in the crowd, in what looks like a black leather bag. Police have refused to say whether any suspects are being interrogated.
Officials have said that the explosion could have been a terrorist attack, which has rarely, if ever, happened in Moldova.
At least 32 people were hurt as a result of the explosion. Some eye-witnesses have said that some of the victims were badly hurt.
Interior Minister: explosion in downtown Chisinau possible terrorist attack
Interior Minister Victor Catan told Stirea Zilei that the recent explosion in downtown Chisinau, which wounded about 30 people, may have been a terrorist attack.
Mr. Catan added that the explosion was most likely caused by a grenade. Many of the victims have scraps of metal lodged into their legs and arms. Some head injuries have also been reported. About five victims have severe wounds.
Mr. Catan added that the explosion was most likely caused by a grenade. Many of the victims have scraps of metal lodged into their legs and arms. Some head injuries have also been reported. About five victims have severe wounds.
Update, explosion in Chisinau, 1.42 a.m. (Chisinau time)
Stirea Zilei is doing a great job reporting on the subject, as are Unimedia, ProTV, and JurnalTV.
Stirea Zilei is at the emergency hospital, talking to the victims (most of them young men and women). Many seem shocked. A young man with wounds on his leg, hand, and head, said that he only remembered that something exploded - the Stirea Zilei reporter says he was crying.
The concert downtown apparently continued for some time after the explosion.
More to follow.
Stirea Zilei is at the emergency hospital, talking to the victims (most of them young men and women). Many seem shocked. A young man with wounds on his leg, hand, and head, said that he only remembered that something exploded - the Stirea Zilei reporter says he was crying.
The concert downtown apparently continued for some time after the explosion.
More to follow.
Update on explosion in downtown Chisinau
Emergency Hospital doctors told Stirea Zilei that 30 people have been wounded as a result of the explosion, five of whom have more severe wounds. No life is in danger at the moment, however.
It is still unclear whether the explosion was an accident or was planned by someone. Nobody has claimed placing the grenade among the crowd.
There are also unconfirmed rumors of a second explosion in the backstage of a podium that was installed for the concert tonight.
More to follow.
It is still unclear whether the explosion was an accident or was planned by someone. Nobody has claimed placing the grenade among the crowd.
There are also unconfirmed rumors of a second explosion in the backstage of a podium that was installed for the concert tonight.
More to follow.
Grenade blows up in downtown Chisinau during concert
A grenade blew up a few hours ago in downtown Chisinau, wounding at least 26 people.
Chisinau was celebrating City Day today with a concert, and there were a lot of people in the area.
Updates to follow.
For those who speak Romanian, Stirea Zilei and Unimedia are providing updates.
Chisinau was celebrating City Day today with a concert, and there were a lot of people in the area.
Updates to follow.
For those who speak Romanian, Stirea Zilei and Unimedia are providing updates.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Party of Communists head: we need to get ready for early elections
Party of Communists (PC) head and former Moldovan President (2001-2009) Vladimir Voronin visited Nisporeni yesterday to meet with local PC officials. According to Unimedia sources from the meeting, Mr. Voronin promised that the Communists would not vote for an Alliance presidential candidate and that the party should be getting ready for early elections.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration currently holds 53 seats in the legislature, eight short of the 61 it needs to elect a President. The Communists have said they will not vote for an Alliance candidate. At the same time, Russian President Dmitri Medvedev recently met with Marian Lupu, the Alliance's candidate, which many analysts said was a sign to the PC that it is no longer in Russia's favors.
The presidential elections are scheduled for October 23, 2009. If these fail, repeat elections will be called. If Moldova does not have a head of state after repeat elections, early legislative elections will be called for 2010.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration currently holds 53 seats in the legislature, eight short of the 61 it needs to elect a President. The Communists have said they will not vote for an Alliance candidate. At the same time, Russian President Dmitri Medvedev recently met with Marian Lupu, the Alliance's candidate, which many analysts said was a sign to the PC that it is no longer in Russia's favors.
The presidential elections are scheduled for October 23, 2009. If these fail, repeat elections will be called. If Moldova does not have a head of state after repeat elections, early legislative elections will be called for 2010.
Romanian Parliament dismisses cabinet as neighboring country gets ready for elections, ties with Moldova to be affected
The Romanian Parliament dismissed the cabinet today. Romania is getting ready for presidential elections in November 2009.
This will most likely affect ties with Moldova since Romanian authorities will be consumed by the electoral campaign at a time when the new ruling Alliance for European Integration announced its desire to improve ties with Romania and with the European Union.
This will most likely affect ties with Moldova since Romanian authorities will be consumed by the electoral campaign at a time when the new ruling Alliance for European Integration announced its desire to improve ties with Romania and with the European Union.
At least 300 peaceful protesters beaten and ill-treated by Moldovan police after April 7: Soros Foundation report
The Soros Foundation released a report today saying that "Moldovan police beat and otherwise ill-treated at least 300 peaceful protesters of the nearly 700 they detained following the parliamentary elections in April."
After the Party of Communists won legislative elections on April 5, 2009, thousands of peaceful protesters demonstrated in downtown Chisinau on April 6 and 7. On April 7, a group of violent protesters began throwing stones at police officers and eventually made their way into the Parliament and Presidential buildings, where they set a few floors ablaze. Communist authorities later admitted that security forces allowed these protesters to enter the buildings.
On the night of April 7, Moldovan police started a massive repression campaign, arresting hundreds of people, some of whom were not even at the protest in front of the Presidential and Parliamentary buildings. Many of those detained were either taken into an unknown direction or to police stations, where they were beaten and tortured. At least one death, that of Valeriu Boboc, was connected to the repression.
The Soros Foundation report has the most comprehensive information about the number of people detained and the degree of abuse to which they were subjected. It also offers recommendations to the new Moldovan authorities.
Both the English- and the Romanian-language versions of the report are available here. Warning: the report includes a lot of shocking testimonies from the young men and women who were beaten and tortured in police stations.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
After the Party of Communists won legislative elections on April 5, 2009, thousands of peaceful protesters demonstrated in downtown Chisinau on April 6 and 7. On April 7, a group of violent protesters began throwing stones at police officers and eventually made their way into the Parliament and Presidential buildings, where they set a few floors ablaze. Communist authorities later admitted that security forces allowed these protesters to enter the buildings.
On the night of April 7, Moldovan police started a massive repression campaign, arresting hundreds of people, some of whom were not even at the protest in front of the Presidential and Parliamentary buildings. Many of those detained were either taken into an unknown direction or to police stations, where they were beaten and tortured. At least one death, that of Valeriu Boboc, was connected to the repression.
The Soros Foundation report has the most comprehensive information about the number of people detained and the degree of abuse to which they were subjected. It also offers recommendations to the new Moldovan authorities.
Both the English- and the Romanian-language versions of the report are available here. Warning: the report includes a lot of shocking testimonies from the young men and women who were beaten and tortured in police stations.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Monday, October 12, 2009
IMF to arrive to Chisinau on October 14, 2009
A Government press release says that a delegation from the International Monetary Fund will arrive in Chisinau on October 14 to hold talks with Moldovan authorities about a new loan.
The IMF will be in Moldova until October 28.
The last time the international organization was in the country, talks with the Communist authorities about a new loan failed, and the IMF delegation left before its official departure date.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration has said that it needs money from the IMF in order to help Moldova weather the economic crisis.
The IMF will be in Moldova until October 28.
The last time the international organization was in the country, talks with the Communist authorities about a new loan failed, and the IMF delegation left before its official departure date.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration has said that it needs money from the IMF in order to help Moldova weather the economic crisis.
Communists: we will probably not nominate any presidential candidate
Communist M.P. Grigore Petrenco told the press during the weekend that the Party of Communists has not yet made a decision about nominating a presidential candidate, but that his party will most likely not do so.
Legally, there have to be at least two presidential candidates in order for the election to be valid. Right after April 5, 2009, the opposition at the time refused to nominate a candidate, as a result of which the Communists put forth two of them. The presidential election still failed because the opposition refused to vote for the Communist candidate. Early elections were as a result organized on July 29, 2009.
Alliance for European Integration leaders said that they may have to nominate a second candidate, as well, if the Communists refuse to do so.
The ruling coalition's nominee is Democratic Party head Marian Lupu. The Communists have said that they will not vote for Mr. Lupu because he is a "traitor" and a "leech." Mr. Lupu left the Communists after April 2009.
Legally, there have to be at least two presidential candidates in order for the election to be valid. Right after April 5, 2009, the opposition at the time refused to nominate a candidate, as a result of which the Communists put forth two of them. The presidential election still failed because the opposition refused to vote for the Communist candidate. Early elections were as a result organized on July 29, 2009.
Alliance for European Integration leaders said that they may have to nominate a second candidate, as well, if the Communists refuse to do so.
The ruling coalition's nominee is Democratic Party head Marian Lupu. The Communists have said that they will not vote for Mr. Lupu because he is a "traitor" and a "leech." Mr. Lupu left the Communists after April 2009.
Russian President meets Alliance presidential candidate, seemingly snubs Communists
Democratic Party (DP) head Marian Lupu, the Alliance for European Integration's presidential candidate, met with Russian President Dmitri Medvedev on Friday, October 9. Mr. Medvedev was in Chisinau to attend the Commonwealth of Independent States summit.
The meeting was not open to the press and there is next to no knowledge about what Mr. Medvedev and Mr. Lupu talked about.
The Russian Presidency, however, posted an official transcript on its website, which includes an English-language summary about the beginning of the conversation.
The meeting was not open to the press and there is next to no knowledge about what Mr. Medvedev and Mr. Lupu talked about.
The Russian Presidency, however, posted an official transcript on its website, which includes an English-language summary about the beginning of the conversation.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Retirees resume protests against fee hikes
A few hundred retirees gathered in front of Chisinau City Hall today to continue protests against a City Council decision to hike water consumption and public transportation fees, as well as to cease offering free public transportation to the elderly. The City Council has thus far refused to change its decision.
Last week, protesters assaulted mayor Dorin Chirtoaca after he stepped out to talk to them.
Mr. Chirtoaca stepped out today, as well, telling the protesters that the City Council has decided to grant each elderly person who fulfills certain conditions a 70-leu (about nine dollars) subsidy for public transportation, which should cover most of their traveling expenses. Most retirees take the trolley to shop at an open-air market or to visit the doctor. One trolley trip costs two lei. A bus trip is three lei.
Maia Laguta, head of the Salvgardare Association, was the organizer of the protest and said she chose to come out into the street today in order to draw the attention of officials from Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) member-countries. Chisinau is hosting the CIS summit today and tomorrow.
Last week, protesters assaulted mayor Dorin Chirtoaca after he stepped out to talk to them.
Mr. Chirtoaca stepped out today, as well, telling the protesters that the City Council has decided to grant each elderly person who fulfills certain conditions a 70-leu (about nine dollars) subsidy for public transportation, which should cover most of their traveling expenses. Most retirees take the trolley to shop at an open-air market or to visit the doctor. One trolley trip costs two lei. A bus trip is three lei.
Maia Laguta, head of the Salvgardare Association, was the organizer of the protest and said she chose to come out into the street today in order to draw the attention of officials from Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) member-countries. Chisinau is hosting the CIS summit today and tomorrow.
Protests in Chisinau as Commonwealth of Independent States summit begins
The Actiunea Europeana [European Action] Movement (AEM) and the Moldovan Greens gathered near the Palace of the Republic where the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) summit began to argue for Moldova's withdrawal from this organization.
AEM head Anatol Petrenco told the press that Moldova should only focus on joining the European Union and that the CIS was an obsolete organization that caused more problems than it solved. Andrei Dumbraveanu, head of the Moldovan Greens, added that the foreign weapons on Moldovan soil (referring to Russian troops stationed in the breakaway republic of Transnistria) could cause environmental damage.
The two parties had to argue with police officers who prevented them from getting too close to the Palace, and Mr. Petrenco accused the new Government of not being as democratic as it promised.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration is considered to be more pro-Western and pro-European, but seems to have taken a cautious path in its ties with Russia. It has organized the CIS summit, and Alliance officials have expressed a desire to meet with Kremlin representatives. As a result, Moldovan editorialists like Timpul's Constantic Tanase, a well-known independent journalist, said that some of the Alliance's electorate may grow increasingly disappointed if it does not see a visible pro-European and pro-Western change in Moldovan domestic and foreign policy. The AEM could eventually try to catch some of that electorate.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
AEM head Anatol Petrenco told the press that Moldova should only focus on joining the European Union and that the CIS was an obsolete organization that caused more problems than it solved. Andrei Dumbraveanu, head of the Moldovan Greens, added that the foreign weapons on Moldovan soil (referring to Russian troops stationed in the breakaway republic of Transnistria) could cause environmental damage.
The two parties had to argue with police officers who prevented them from getting too close to the Palace, and Mr. Petrenco accused the new Government of not being as democratic as it promised.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration is considered to be more pro-Western and pro-European, but seems to have taken a cautious path in its ties with Russia. It has organized the CIS summit, and Alliance officials have expressed a desire to meet with Kremlin representatives. As a result, Moldovan editorialists like Timpul's Constantic Tanase, a well-known independent journalist, said that some of the Alliance's electorate may grow increasingly disappointed if it does not see a visible pro-European and pro-Western change in Moldovan domestic and foreign policy. The AEM could eventually try to catch some of that electorate.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Commonwealth of Independent States summit begins in Chisinau, Russian and Ukrainian presidents to arrive tomorrow
The summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) began in Chisinau today. Officials from CIS countries gathered in the Palace of the Republic to talk about various topics like migration and to adopt a common document about the Allied victory over the Axis powers in World War II.
Most of the media attention, however, seems to have been directed toward the interaction between Moldovan and Russian officials. Moldovan Foreign Minister Iurie Leanca met with CIS Executive Council head Sergei Lebedev and with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.
The Moldovan Parliament's press office has also confirmed that Russian President Dmitri Medvedev will be meeting with Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu, as well as with the Alliance for European Integration's presidential candidate Marian Lupu.
It is unclear if Mr. Medvedev will have a meeting with Party of Communists (PC) head and former President Vladimir Voronin.
Analysts have said that Russia has slowly warmed up to the new Moldovan Government after it realized that throwing its entire support to the PC carried a lot of risks, particularly losing some degree of control over policy-making in Moldova if the Communists lose.
www.stireazilei.md
www.unimedia.md
Most of the media attention, however, seems to have been directed toward the interaction between Moldovan and Russian officials. Moldovan Foreign Minister Iurie Leanca met with CIS Executive Council head Sergei Lebedev and with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.
The Moldovan Parliament's press office has also confirmed that Russian President Dmitri Medvedev will be meeting with Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu, as well as with the Alliance for European Integration's presidential candidate Marian Lupu.
It is unclear if Mr. Medvedev will have a meeting with Party of Communists (PC) head and former President Vladimir Voronin.
Analysts have said that Russia has slowly warmed up to the new Moldovan Government after it realized that throwing its entire support to the PC carried a lot of risks, particularly losing some degree of control over policy-making in Moldova if the Communists lose.
www.stireazilei.md
www.unimedia.md
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Presidential election set for October 23
Parliament decided today to set the Presidential election for October 23. Legislators also formed a committee that will coordinate the registration of candidates and preparations for the election.
It is unclear if the ruling Alliance for European Integration will manage to elect a head of state since it needs eight more seats in order to reach the 61-vote requirement for the election of the President. Those votes can only come from the Party of Communists, which has recently said it would not vote for an Alliance candidate.
If Moldova does not have an elected President by mid-November, early elections will be set for 2010.
It is unclear if the ruling Alliance for European Integration will manage to elect a head of state since it needs eight more seats in order to reach the 61-vote requirement for the election of the President. Those votes can only come from the Party of Communists, which has recently said it would not vote for an Alliance candidate.
If Moldova does not have an elected President by mid-November, early elections will be set for 2010.
Moldovans commemorate six months since mass unrest and repression on April 7
Right after legislative elections on April 5, several NGOs and opposition politicians organized mass protests in downtown Chisinau. On April 6, these demonstrations were generally peaceful. On the morning of April 7, as more and more Moldovans trickled in downtown, a group of protesters began vandalizing the Parliament and Presidential buildings. Security forces decided not to get involved to stop the vandalism, which resulted in the devastation of a few floors in both buildings.
On the night of April 7, however, security forces began a repression campaign. They detained many of the people who were still downtown at the time. Hundreds of men and women, mostly young, were taken to police stations or unknown locations, where many were beaten and tortured. At least one death, that of Valeriu Boboc, has been tied to the repression.
Until now, only one police officer has been officially investigated in a torture case. The policeman is accused of beating and torturing a 15-year-old boy until he fainted. Afterwards, he tried to get the boy's parents not to press charges by offering them 300 Euros, a computer, and to pay for medical expenses. The parents refused.
Justice Minister Alexandru Tanase promised today to form an official investigation committee to identify the security forces that mistreated protesters.
The political crisis in Moldova deepened after these events, as then-President Vladimir Voronin accused both the opposition and Romania of trying to stage a coup. As a result, the opposition refused to grant the one additional vote the Communists needed to elect their own presidential candidate, which led to early legislative elections on July 29.
On the night of April 7, however, security forces began a repression campaign. They detained many of the people who were still downtown at the time. Hundreds of men and women, mostly young, were taken to police stations or unknown locations, where many were beaten and tortured. At least one death, that of Valeriu Boboc, has been tied to the repression.
Until now, only one police officer has been officially investigated in a torture case. The policeman is accused of beating and torturing a 15-year-old boy until he fainted. Afterwards, he tried to get the boy's parents not to press charges by offering them 300 Euros, a computer, and to pay for medical expenses. The parents refused.
Justice Minister Alexandru Tanase promised today to form an official investigation committee to identify the security forces that mistreated protesters.
The political crisis in Moldova deepened after these events, as then-President Vladimir Voronin accused both the opposition and Romania of trying to stage a coup. As a result, the opposition refused to grant the one additional vote the Communists needed to elect their own presidential candidate, which led to early legislative elections on July 29.
Parliament appoints new Prosecutor General
Parliament appointed a new Prosecutor General today. His name is Valeriu Zubco. Mr. Zubco is 44 years old. He heads the Ex-lege non-governmental organization, is a lawyer, and a law professor.
Mr. Zubco was appointed after the former Prosecutor General Valeriu Gurbulea resigned, most likely to preempt getting fired by the legislature. Mr. Gurbulea has often been accused by politicians and civil rights activists of being pro-Communist and of persecuting anti-Communist politicians and journalists.
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.jurnal.md
www.interlic.md
Mr. Zubco was appointed after the former Prosecutor General Valeriu Gurbulea resigned, most likely to preempt getting fired by the legislature. Mr. Gurbulea has often been accused by politicians and civil rights activists of being pro-Communist and of persecuting anti-Communist politicians and journalists.
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.jurnal.md
www.interlic.md
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Alliance parties squabbling about reintroduction of History of Romanians in school
Education Minister Leonid Bujor and Prime Minister Vlad Filat said recently that they would try to reintroduce The History of Romanians as a discipline in school. This discipline was removed by the Communists three years ago and replaced with an "integrated history."
Scholars and teachers have accused the Communists of trying to brainwash schoolchildren with this new discipline by denying the Romanian identity of the majority population in Moldova and by praising the Soviet Union. Please see a detailed Imedia report on the background to this conflict here.
Democratic Party head Marian Lupu recently commented on Mr. Filat's and Mr. Bujor's intention, saying that he is against the reintroduction of the history of Romanians.
Mr. Lupu told Omega that "the absolute majority of the population identifies itself as Moldovan [instead of Romanian]. In our opinion, the best option for Moldova would be the history of our state - the history of Moldova. We would abstain from talking about sensitive moments in history which could lead to social divisions. We have always pleaded against and will continue to plead against such approaches."
Scholars and teachers have accused the Communists of trying to brainwash schoolchildren with this new discipline by denying the Romanian identity of the majority population in Moldova and by praising the Soviet Union. Please see a detailed Imedia report on the background to this conflict here.
Democratic Party head Marian Lupu recently commented on Mr. Filat's and Mr. Bujor's intention, saying that he is against the reintroduction of the history of Romanians.
Mr. Lupu told Omega that "the absolute majority of the population identifies itself as Moldovan [instead of Romanian]. In our opinion, the best option for Moldova would be the history of our state - the history of Moldova. We would abstain from talking about sensitive moments in history which could lead to social divisions. We have always pleaded against and will continue to plead against such approaches."
Interior Minister fires head of Chisinau police
Interior Minister Victor Catan said today that he fired Iacob Gumenita, the head of the Chisinau police.
Mr. Catan noted that he had made this decision on September 28, but did not specify why it took so long to make the announcement.
Mr. Gumenita has become well-known because of his ongoing conflicts with mayor Dorin Chirtoaca and other opposition parties. He has often been accused of being pro-Communist.
The head of the Chisinau police refused to speak with media outlets about his dismissal.
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.stireazilei.md
Mr. Catan noted that he had made this decision on September 28, but did not specify why it took so long to make the announcement.
Mr. Gumenita has become well-known because of his ongoing conflicts with mayor Dorin Chirtoaca and other opposition parties. He has often been accused of being pro-Communist.
The head of the Chisinau police refused to speak with media outlets about his dismissal.
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.stireazilei.md
Monday, October 5, 2009
EBRD to give Moldova 80 million Euros
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development recently announced that it would offer help to Moldova worth about 80 million Euros. The money would be used for transportation, city infrastructure, and energy supply projects.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration has said that it will need a lot of financial support from Western countries and international organizations in order to overcome the economic crisis. The coalition has also been less willing to ask for financial help from Russia and China, which have promised to offer loans to Moldova that are worth 500 million U.S. dollars and one million U.S. dollars respectively.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
The ruling Alliance for European Integration has said that it will need a lot of financial support from Western countries and international organizations in order to overcome the economic crisis. The coalition has also been less willing to ask for financial help from Russia and China, which have promised to offer loans to Moldova that are worth 500 million U.S. dollars and one million U.S. dollars respectively.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
History of Romanian to be reintroduced in the school curriculum: premier
Prime Minister Vlad Filat announced that his cabinet will reintroduce the History of Romanians in the school curriculum. This discipline was removed from Moldovan schools by the Party of Communists three years ago, and replaced with what was called "Integrated History," which focuses more heavily on arguing that Moldova has had its own state identity for the last 600 years or so.
The History of Romanians tends to be more concerned with asserting the common history and Romanian identity of the people living in Romania and around its borders. The history of Moldova is considered to be part of the history of Romanians.
Scholars, intellectuals, and teachers have accused the Communists of attempting to use the discipline of Integrated History to brainwash Moldovan schoolchildren because it denies the Romanian identity of Moldovans and praises both the Russian tsarist authorities (Moldova was part of imperial Russia since 1812) and the Soviet Union.
Many teachers have also refused to teach the topics required by Integrated History textbooks, which they said ignored important topics like Moldova's unification with Romania in 1918 and the famine of 1948, caused by Soviet authorities in what is today the Republic of Moldova.
The Moldovan national identity is a disputed topic in the country. The Party of Communists has been a strong proponent of the existence of a Moldovan identity that is separate from the Romanian one, while others have said that Moldovans are essentially ethnic Romanians. This argument extends to disputes about whether the language spoken in the country should be called Moldovan or Romanian and what history should be taught in schools.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration, with the possible exception of the Democratic Party, leans more toward the camp that believes in the Romanian identity of Moldovans. The Democrats have often avoided to take a clear position on the matter.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
The History of Romanians tends to be more concerned with asserting the common history and Romanian identity of the people living in Romania and around its borders. The history of Moldova is considered to be part of the history of Romanians.
Scholars, intellectuals, and teachers have accused the Communists of attempting to use the discipline of Integrated History to brainwash Moldovan schoolchildren because it denies the Romanian identity of Moldovans and praises both the Russian tsarist authorities (Moldova was part of imperial Russia since 1812) and the Soviet Union.
Many teachers have also refused to teach the topics required by Integrated History textbooks, which they said ignored important topics like Moldova's unification with Romania in 1918 and the famine of 1948, caused by Soviet authorities in what is today the Republic of Moldova.
The Moldovan national identity is a disputed topic in the country. The Party of Communists has been a strong proponent of the existence of a Moldovan identity that is separate from the Romanian one, while others have said that Moldovans are essentially ethnic Romanians. This argument extends to disputes about whether the language spoken in the country should be called Moldovan or Romanian and what history should be taught in schools.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration, with the possible exception of the Democratic Party, leans more toward the camp that believes in the Romanian identity of Moldovans. The Democrats have often avoided to take a clear position on the matter.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Parliament may set date for presidential election on Wednesday
Speaker and interim head of state Mihai Ghimpu told the press today that he will ask that the next legislative session be scheduled for Wednesday, October 7. Mr. Ghimpu added that he would also request that the M.P.s talk about setting the date for the presidential election. Moldovan media outlets like Unimedia have quoted sources as saying that potential dates for the election could be October 23 or 26. Parliament has also formed a committee for the election of a President.
It is unclear if the ruling Alliance for European Integration will manage to elect a head of state. The coalition has 53 seats in Parliament, but it needs 61 to vote in a President. Those votes can only come from the Party of Communists, which seems to have become increasingly reluctant to negociate for a compromise.
Communist M.P. Grigore Petrenco said today that the Party of Communists "is getting ready for early elections because as long as Mihai Ghimpu is Speaker, we cannot vote for the Alliance for European Integration's presidential candidate." Previously, a few Communist M.P.s said that they would vote for a coalition head of state if Mr. Ghimpu is dismissed.
Mr. Ghimpu replied that "if Petrenco wants early elections, he'll have to say goodbye to his M.P. seat," suggesting that the Communist deputy will not make it into the next legislature.
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.stireazilei.md
www.jurnal.md
It is unclear if the ruling Alliance for European Integration will manage to elect a head of state. The coalition has 53 seats in Parliament, but it needs 61 to vote in a President. Those votes can only come from the Party of Communists, which seems to have become increasingly reluctant to negociate for a compromise.
Communist M.P. Grigore Petrenco said today that the Party of Communists "is getting ready for early elections because as long as Mihai Ghimpu is Speaker, we cannot vote for the Alliance for European Integration's presidential candidate." Previously, a few Communist M.P.s said that they would vote for a coalition head of state if Mr. Ghimpu is dismissed.
Mr. Ghimpu replied that "if Petrenco wants early elections, he'll have to say goodbye to his M.P. seat," suggesting that the Communist deputy will not make it into the next legislature.
h/t www.unimedia.md
www.stireazilei.md
www.jurnal.md
Friday, October 2, 2009
Parliament approves committee to investigate April 6-8 events
Parliament approved a committee to investigate events on April 6-8, 2009 today. The committee includes one representative from each parliamentary party.
Right after parliamentary election results came in on the night of April 5, showing the Party of Communists win about 60 out of the 101 seats in the legislature, a few non-governmental organizations called on Moldovans to protest in downtown Chisinau against what they said were stolen elections. Protests were generally peaceful on April 6 and in the morning of April 7. Toward the afternoon on April 7, however, they turned violent as hundreds of young men and women stormed the Parliament and Presidential buildings and vandalized them.
On the night of April 7, security forces across the country engaged in the harsh repression of protesters, arresting hundreds of people, some of whom were not even in attendance at the protest. Many of the detainees were beaten and tortured, and at least one death - that of Valeriu Boboc - has been tied to the repression.
Several Romanian journalists were thrown out of the country (President Vladimir Voronin accused Romania of trying to stage a coup), and JurnalTV cameraman Oleg Brega was beaten by security forces in the back of the Government building. Mr. Brega was filming security forces beating protesters. JurnalTV reporter Rodica Mahu was also detained by unknown people who later turned out to be police officers.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Right after parliamentary election results came in on the night of April 5, showing the Party of Communists win about 60 out of the 101 seats in the legislature, a few non-governmental organizations called on Moldovans to protest in downtown Chisinau against what they said were stolen elections. Protests were generally peaceful on April 6 and in the morning of April 7. Toward the afternoon on April 7, however, they turned violent as hundreds of young men and women stormed the Parliament and Presidential buildings and vandalized them.
On the night of April 7, security forces across the country engaged in the harsh repression of protesters, arresting hundreds of people, some of whom were not even in attendance at the protest. Many of the detainees were beaten and tortured, and at least one death - that of Valeriu Boboc - has been tied to the repression.
Several Romanian journalists were thrown out of the country (President Vladimir Voronin accused Romania of trying to stage a coup), and JurnalTV cameraman Oleg Brega was beaten by security forces in the back of the Government building. Mr. Brega was filming security forces beating protesters. JurnalTV reporter Rodica Mahu was also detained by unknown people who later turned out to be police officers.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Elderly stop protests against water consumption and public transportation hikes, but conflict continues in trolleys and buses
Retirees stopped protests in front of Chisinau city hall after three days of demonstrations against a Chisinau City Council decision to hike water consumption and public transportation fees. The elderly also resent the fact that they cannot travel for free anymore. On the first day of protests, mayor Dorin Chirtoaca stepped out to speak with the protesters, but was physically assaulted.
At the same time, media outlets have written about the refusal of some elderly people to pay for using public transportation. Stirea Zilei reports on a verbal fight between a fee collector and an elderly woman in a trolley. The elderly woman refused to pay, complaining that her pension is too small, and the fee collector attempted to get her off the trolley, telling the woman that her salary is also small.
It is unclear if this refusal to pay will turn into a mass phenomenon, but there seems to be a concerted effort to resist this new City Council policy. City Council officials have said the protests have no grounds since the elderly will be given a 70-leu monthly public transportation subsidy, which should cover most of the expenses the elderly incur on trolley and bus trips.
At the same time, media outlets have written about the refusal of some elderly people to pay for using public transportation. Stirea Zilei reports on a verbal fight between a fee collector and an elderly woman in a trolley. The elderly woman refused to pay, complaining that her pension is too small, and the fee collector attempted to get her off the trolley, telling the woman that her salary is also small.
It is unclear if this refusal to pay will turn into a mass phenomenon, but there seems to be a concerted effort to resist this new City Council policy. City Council officials have said the protests have no grounds since the elderly will be given a 70-leu monthly public transportation subsidy, which should cover most of the expenses the elderly incur on trolley and bus trips.
Communists: We could vote for a President if Speaker Ghimpu is voted out
Communist M.P. Maria Postoico said during a press conference today that the Party of Communists could accept to vote for an Alliance presidential candidate (namely, Marian Lupu, the Alliance's candidate) if Parliament accepts to dismiss Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu. She added that 35 out of the 48 Communist M.P.s submitted an initiative about Mr. Ghimpu's dismissal today.
Communist M.P. Vladimir Turcan stressed that his party is still hoping to for a center-left coalition with any parliamentary party that is interested in cooperating.
Democratic Party head and Alliance presidential candidate Marian Lupu said, however, that he sees no reason why Mr. Ghimpu should be dismissed, and noted that he is not interested in a coalition with the Communists.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration holds 53 seats in the new legislative, eight short of the 61 needed to elect a President. Those votes can only come from the Party of Communists. Previously, Communist head and former President Vladimir Voronin (2001-2009) said he would not vote for a "traitor" and a "leech," a reference to Marian Lupu, who left the Party of Communists in 2009.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Communist M.P. Vladimir Turcan stressed that his party is still hoping to for a center-left coalition with any parliamentary party that is interested in cooperating.
Democratic Party head and Alliance presidential candidate Marian Lupu said, however, that he sees no reason why Mr. Ghimpu should be dismissed, and noted that he is not interested in a coalition with the Communists.
The ruling Alliance for European Integration holds 53 seats in the new legislative, eight short of the 61 needed to elect a President. Those votes can only come from the Party of Communists. Previously, Communist head and former President Vladimir Voronin (2001-2009) said he would not vote for a "traitor" and a "leech," a reference to Marian Lupu, who left the Party of Communists in 2009.
h/t www.jurnal.md
Prosecutor General resigns
Moldova's Prosecutor General Valeriu Gurbulea was let go by Parliament today, after he submitted a resignation request on September 25, 2009, the day the new Government was voted in by the legislature.
Mr. Gurbulea has been accused by opposition politicians and civil rights activists of supporting the Party of Communists during his stint as Prosecutor. He has also appeared in a documentary film made by pro-Communist journalist Constantin Staris, which accused the liberal opposition and Romania of attempting to stage a coup in April 2009, during mass protests that ended in the devastation of the Parliament and the Presidential buildings in downtown Chisinau.
Thus far, two people have been rumored as replacements. One of them, Ion Diacov, has caused a stir in media outlets. Mr. Diacov is brother of Democratic Party (DP) former head and current honorary DP president Dumitru Diacov. The Democrats have denied these rumors, however.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
Mr. Gurbulea has been accused by opposition politicians and civil rights activists of supporting the Party of Communists during his stint as Prosecutor. He has also appeared in a documentary film made by pro-Communist journalist Constantin Staris, which accused the liberal opposition and Romania of attempting to stage a coup in April 2009, during mass protests that ended in the devastation of the Parliament and the Presidential buildings in downtown Chisinau.
Thus far, two people have been rumored as replacements. One of them, Ion Diacov, has caused a stir in media outlets. Mr. Diacov is brother of Democratic Party (DP) former head and current honorary DP president Dumitru Diacov. The Democrats have denied these rumors, however.
h/t www.stireazilei.md
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