The future governor of Gagauzia must focus on addressing the autonomy’s problems rather than engaging in geopolitics or becoming an instrument Russia could use against the Republic of Moldova, according to Ștefan Bejan, an expert at WatchDog, TRIBUNA reports.

“The election campaign in Gagauzia has begun. Eight candidates are competing for the position of governor, while 135 candidates are running for the 35 seats in the People’s Assembly. Previously, various scare stories circulated in Gagauzia about restrictions on the autonomy’s rights and claims that Chisinau wanted to impose a puppet leader on the region. But what do we see in reality? The Central Electoral Commission refused to register only three individuals. Voters now have a very diverse range of candidates to choose from,” Bejan stated.

The expert noted that most candidates are well-known figures in the region, including mayors, former members of Moldova’s Parliament or Gagauzia’s People’s Assembly, local councillors and civic activists.

“These are people whose work can be assessed based on their actions, the results they have achieved and the interests they have served. That is precisely why it matters who receives the voters’ trust and how they will use it,” he said.

Bejan believes the elections could help end a prolonged period of political crisis and improve relations between Chisinau and Comrat.

“These elections could put an end to a lengthy period of political crisis. They could open a new chapter in relations between Chisinau and Comrat, in which dialogue and solving residents’ problems replace permanent confrontation. The future governor of Gagauzia must address the autonomy’s problems, not engage in geopolitics or become an instrument Russia can use against the Republic of Moldova,” the expert emphasised.

According to Bejan, the upcoming vote will also represent a major test for Moldova’s state institutions, which must demonstrate their ability to ensure free and fair elections, combat electoral corruption and prevent foreign interference.

He stressed that any violations must be addressed in accordance with the law, regardless of the candidate involved or the political party supporting them.

“However, above all, these elections are about the people of Gagauzia. They must decide whom to entrust with their future and the future of their children: corrupt puppets directed from abroad or community leaders who genuinely want what is best for the Gagauz people,” Ștefan Bejan concluded.