The Civic Coalition for Free and Fair Elections (CALC) expresses its deep concern regarding the extent of external interference in the electoral process in the Republic of Moldova, as highlighted by the results of the presidential election and constitutional referendum held on October 20, 2024.

Despite clear signs of illegal involvement of external sources in the financing of certain political parties and manipulation of the electoral process, the results of these elections demonstrate an alarming level of external influence that seriously undermines the integrity of the electoral process. Recent journalists investigations, as well as investigations by law enforcement authorities, have confirmed the existence of complex money laundering schemes and illegal financing from external sources, particularly from the Russian Federation. Documented facts, including multi-million-dollar transfers, the organization of paid protests and rallies, and the offering of electoral gifts, emphasize massive attempts to influence citizens’ votes. These actions aimed at corrupting voters pose a direct threat to the democratic process. A particularly concerning indicator is the significant discrepancy between opinion poll results, which are generally a relatively accurate forecasting tool, and the final results of the first round of presidential elections and referendum.

These differences indicate a distortion of the electorate’s will under the influence of illicit financial resources and corrupt practices. As a result, the outcomes of the election no longer reflect the genuine will of the citizens but rather the effects of external manipulation and fraud. CALC believes that external interference and the extensive use of illegal resources played a decisive role in distorting the results of the October 20 election and referendum.

Therefore, it is essential that law enforcement agencies intensify their efforts to prevent the recurrence of such practices. At the same time, civil society, in partnership with international actors, must continue its active role in monitoring electoral processes and supporting their integrity. We make a strong appeal to the competent authorities to finalize investigations and apply appropriate sanctions to all those involved in these illegal actions, in order to restore citizens’ trust in the electoral process and democracy in the Republic of Moldova.

The Civic Coalition for Free and Fair Elections (CALC) reaffirms its firm commitment to supporting the conduct of fair, transparent, and free elections, free from external influences, that truly reflect the will of the people of the Republic of Moldova.