Moldova local elections: Orhei and Taraclia test political resilience after pro-Russian exits
The official campaign period has commenced for local elections and referendums scheduled for May 17 across 12 Moldovan localities. The race is headlined by the strategic battle for the municipalities of Orhei and Taraclia.
The elections follow the sudden resignations of former mayors Tatiana Cociu and Veaceslav Lupov. Their departures occurred after fugitive convict Ilan Shor announced the termination of his controversial local initiatives in Moldova.
The contest for Orhei
Ten candidates are vying for the mayoralty of Orhei, a long-time stronghold for Shor’s interests. The race features a fractured field of four independents and six party-affiliated nominees.
Sergiu Stanciu, the current director of Chisinau Arena, represents the ruling Action and Solidarity Party (PAS). Stanciu previously contested the seat in 2023 against Tatiana Cociu, who resigned in December 2025.
The opposition is divided among several former Shor affiliates and traditional parties. Victor Pertu, director of the local water utility, runs for "Democratia Acasa," while the current District President, Vasile Adasan, is running as an independent.
The battle for Taraclia
In Taraclia, seven candidates have entered the race to replace Veaceslav Lupov. The field is dominated by independent candidates, including local educators and former municipal officials.
Key contenders include Oleg Kosykh, Vice President of the Party of Development and Consolidation of Moldova (PDCM), and Ecaterina Iacobceac, representing the Socialist Party (PSRM). Andrei Lambru will run on the PAS ticket.
Broad democratic exercise
Beyond the high-profile races in Orhei and Taraclia, new mayors will be elected in eight other villages and communes, including Costesti, Mascauti, and Copceac.
Simultaneously, voters in Hasnasenii Mari and Sadic will participate in local referendums. These polls will decide the potential dismissal of their current mayors, marking a significant day for local administrative accountability.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
