Stoianoglo: Gagauz elections must be run by local bodies

By Ahmet Taş | Wise News Press

CHISINAU, MOLDOVA — Alexandr Stoianoglo, a Member of the Moldovan Parliament and one of the leaders of the "Alternativa" opposition bloc, has declared that elections in Gagauzia should be managed exclusively by the autonomous region's own electoral bodies.

During a recent television broadcast, Stoianoglo expressed his firm support for a model based on the Law on the Special Legal Status of Gagauzia. He argued that the lack of an independent regional electoral commission, which was abolished two years ago, has created a significant political trap and emphasized the vital need to maintain open channels of dialogue with the central government in Chisinau.

The liquidation of the Central Electoral Commission

According to a report by Infotag via Știri.md, Stoianoglo highlighted past collaborative efforts during the broadcast. Recalling his work within the inter-parliamentary group between the Moldovan Parliament and the People's Assembly of Gagauzia (APG), he noted that he and his colleagues successfully established the Central Electoral Commission of Gagauzia.

He explained that such powers are not granted automatically but must be earned by demonstrating a readiness to assume responsibility. However, the former Prosecutor General pointed out that this commission was liquidated two years ago without any justification, describing the current situation as a "self-made trap."

Emphasis on dialogue with Chisinau and legitimacy

Stoianoglo warned that suspending the activities of the joint group between the parliament and the APG has been destructive, as there are no other mechanisms available for resolving these complex issues. Underscoring the importance of electoral legitimacy, he summarized his steadfast position:

"Elections in Gagauzia must be led by the electoral bodies of Gagauzia, but they must be legitimate. The elections of the People's Assembly are the responsibility of Gagauzia."

"No quick or perfect solutions"

Stoianoglo argued that there are political forces in Chisinau that are interested neither in resolving the conflict nor in organizing the elections. Despite its flaws, he noted that the inter-parliamentary format proved viable in the past by helping formulate solutions and engaging the national parliament in discussing autonomy issues. Stressing the necessity of maintaining this dialogue format, the politician concluded that there are no quick or perfect solutions; instead, the process requires negotiations, compromises, and systematic work.

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