Former President of the Republic of Moldova and leader of the Party of Socialists (PSRM) Igor Dodon said that the case against him is politically motivated and that prosecutors changed the wording of the charges at the final stage of the proceedings. He made the statement after a new hearing at the Supreme Court of Justice.

According to Dodon, the trial has been ongoing for more than four years, but the prosecution has not provided convincing evidence during this time.

The former president also criticized the video recording presented as key evidence in the case. Dodon claims that the recording is not an original, was selectively edited, and was subsequently falsified by overlaying an audio track onto the video.

Dodon further alleged that the prosecution’s case is based on testimony from people he considers to be associated with Vladimir Plahotniuc and motivated by a desire to secure his conviction. These allegations represent Dodon’s position.

According to the politician, after the case reached the stage at which he was expected to testify, the prosecution unexpectedly changed the wording of the charges and again requested additional time. The next hearing is scheduled for November 3.

Dodon noted that his lawyers had previously been accused of deliberately delaying the proceedings.

The former president also criticized Supreme Court judge Vladislav Gribincea, saying that the judge’s conduct during the hearing raises questions about his impartiality. Dodon added that his lawyers are considering filing a motion to recuse the judge.

According to Dodon, the renewed attention surrounding his case comes amid rising tariffs and the increasing cost of living, and he claimed that the authorities are attempting to divert public attention toward the court proceedings.

“Tariffs are rising, public discontent is growing, and the authorities are once again trying to divert public attention with the Dodon case. It won’t work. We will continue the fight, and those who turn justice into a political tool must understand that they will have to answer for their actions under the law,” the PSRM leader said.