Moldova votes in election, EU referendum

Moldovans vote on Sunday in a presidential election and EU referendum at a pivotal moment that could bolster the small agricultural economy's drive to join the European Union, after allegations of Russian election meddling, Report informs via Reuters.

As the war in Ukraine rages to the east and turns the political and diplomatic spotlight on the former Soviet republic, it has accelerated its push to escape Moscow's orbit and embarked on the long process of EU accession talks.

Polls show pro-Western incumbent Maia Sandu has a comfortable lead over her 10 rivals on the ballot, though the race will go to a Nov. 3 run-off if she fails to reach the 50% threshold to win outright.

Polls show she is likely to face Alexandr Stoianoglo, a former prosecutor-general backed by the traditionally pro-Russian Party of Socialists, if the vote goes to a second round.

Sandu hopes to see a resounding "yes" at the referendum, which will decide whether to insert a clause into the constitution defining EU accession as a goal.

"Our fate is decided on Sunday. Everyone's vote matters, no matter where we are," she wrote on Facebook on Friday.

Polls show a majority support joining the 27-nation bloc, though five of the candidates have told their supporters to vote "No" or boycott, saying the timing of the referendum is a ruse to boost Sandu's haul at the election.

The referendum needs a turnout of at least a third of the people listed on electoral rolls for it to be deemed valid, even though the lists have not been updated in years despite many people emigrating.

A weak outcome for Sandu would set the tone for next summer's parliamentary elections, where political analysts say her PAS party will face a challenge to retain its majority.

Flanked by Romania and Ukraine, the nation of under 3 million people has alternated between pro-Western and pro-Russian courses since the 1991 Soviet breakup.

Ties with Moscow have deteriorated since Sandu came to power in December 2020. Her government has condemned Russia's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, accused Russia of plotting her overthrow and diversified energy supply after Russia reduced gas supplies.