The Democracy at Home Party has called on the Moldovan government to stop what it considers unnecessary spending amid the ongoing economic crisis, TRIBUNA reports.

The party’s chairman, Vasile Costiuc, criticized the planned purchase of six new 4×4 vehicles by the State Protection and Guard Service (SPPS), an institution under the Presidency. The vehicles are reportedly worth more than 5.34 million lei in total, amounting to nearly 890,000 lei per vehicle.

In his statement, Costiuc recalled President Maia Sandu’s public image in 2019, when she advocated for austerity, the careful use of public funds, and rejecting political privileges.

“Where has the modesty of 2019 gone? On behalf of the Democracy at Home Party, we demand an end to unnecessary spending in the midst of a crisis!” Costiuc said.

The politician argued that while citizens are struggling with high utility tariffs and poverty, state institutions are planning to renew their vehicle fleets using public money.

“We firmly call on the government and Maia Sandu to abandon these luxury purchases! It is unacceptable that ordinary citizens are told to ‘tighten their belts’ while those in power renew their vehicle fleets with our money,” the party leader stated.

According to Costiuc, citizens need concrete measures to combat poverty and rising prices rather than expensive off-road vehicles equipped with flashing lights for government officials.

He called on the authorities to cancel the procurement tender.

As of the time of publication, the information provided did not include a response from the Presidency or the State Protection and Guard Service regarding the party’s allegations.