Summary
Moldova's electoral commission has barred two pro-Russian parties, the Heart of Moldova and Moldova Mare, from participating in upcoming parliamentary elections. These parties face accusations of illegal financing and voter bribery. The election results could influence Moldova's future direction, either aligning more with the European Union or moving closer to Russia.
Key Facts
- Moldova's electoral commission stopped two pro-Russian parties from being in the parliamentary elections.
- The Heart of Moldova and Moldova Mare parties were accused of illegal financing and voter bribery.
- Moldova used to be a Soviet republic and is now a candidate for joining the European Union.
- The election results might affect whether Moldova joins the EU or gets closer to Russia.
- The Central Electoral Commission acted after the Chisinau Court of Appeal limited Heart of Moldova's activities for 12 months.
- The Heart of Moldova is part of a bloc that opposes the ruling pro-Western Party of Action and Solidarity.
- The Moldova Mare party's leader was previously sanctioned by the EU for connections with a pro-Russian oligarch.
- Russia has denied claims of interfering in Moldova's elections.
