Eleven Candidates, Including Incumbent Maia Sandu, Set to Compete in Moldova’s Presidential Election

A record 11 candidates have been approved for Moldova’s presidential election next month, according to electoral officials. Incumbent Maia Sandu, who is positioning the election as a test of her commitment to EU integration, leads the polls. Her main challengers include former prosecutor general Alexander Stoianoglo, supported by pro-Russian opposition parties, and Renato Usatii, who advocates for balanced relations with both the West and Moscow.
The election on October 20 will also include a referendum on constitutional changes to facilitate Moldova’s EU membership. The opposition Socialists, generally aligned with Moscow, claim they do not oppose EU accession but accuse Sandu of using the referendum to bolster her chances for reelection.
The backdrop of the election includes tensions with Russia, especially following Sandu’s strong denunciation of the Kremlin’s actions in Ukraine. There are concerns about Russian interference, with U.S., British, and Canadian officials alleging attempts to influence the election outcome.
Recent polls show Sandu with 26.8% support, followed by Usatii at 12.7% and Stoianoglo at 11.2%. Support for EU membership stands at 56% among decided voters.
Other candidates include two former prime ministers, Vasile Tarlev and Ion Chichu, alongside a former deputy prime minister and prominent figures from the pro-Russian Gagauzia region.