Moldovan socialists accuse President of authoritarianism

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
13 Feb 18:14

President Sandu accused Russia of planning a constitution coup via the Sor party as a proxy.

People chant slogans during a protest initiated by the Sor Party, calling for early elections and President Maia Sandu's resignation, in Chisinau, Moldova, Sunday, Nov. 13, 2022 (AP Photo/Aurel Obreja, File)

On Monday, Marina Tauber, vice-president of Moldova's opposition Sor party, accused President Maia Sandu of monopolizing power in the country.

Earlier, Sandu accused Russia of planning a constitutional coup via the Sor party as a proxy. Sandu urged the parliament to strengthen the legislative powers of Moldova's Security and Intelligence Service and other law enforcement agencies, citing alleged attempts to destabilize the country's situation.

"We all understand why these statements were made. In fact, this is a clear attempt to usurp power in the country. Neither Moscow, nor Washington, nor Brussels are behind us, but only the citizens of Moldova," Tauber told a briefing.

She pointed out that the President tailored this conspiracy theory after the Sor party stated that protests over rising energy costs and taxes will resume.

"This is an attempt on the constitutional order, an attack on the principles of democracy. The actions of Sandu and the ruling party are violations for which punishment is provided under the country's сriminal сode," Tauber added.

She also urged opposition parties to support the rallies scheduled on February 19.

Furthermore, MPs from Moldova's opposition Bloc of Communists and Socialists challenged Sandu to present proof of the alleged attempts at a constitutional coup.

"The Bloc of Communists and Socialists categorically condemns the irresponsible statement of President Sandu, made during a briefing on February 13, 2023, that the Russian Federation is allegedly preparing the overthrow of the state system and destabilization in Moldova with the involvement of ‘saboteurs with military training.’ If the Moldovan special services have evidence of such plans, they must be presented to the public. Otherwise, such statements are a provocation aimed at drawing Moldova into a military conflict," The communist-socialist bloc's statement read.

The Bloc also added that Sandu's allegations contradicted a recent report by the US State Department, which assessed that Russia presented no danger to Moldovan and Romanian security.

Earlier last year, In February, the Moldovan government had continuously extended the state of emergency under the pretext of the war in Ukraine. In this case, the Commission for Emergency Situations has the ability to intervene immediately and make decisions if deemed necessary.

Last month, Moldovan Parliament President Igor Grosu urged on Saturday to enhance investments in the national defense in order to be able to participate in international military exercises.