Moldovans cast vote in tight prez runoff

Moldovans cast votes in a decisive presidential runoff Sunday that pits pro-Western incumbent Maia Sandu against a Russia-friendly opponent, as ongoing claims of voter fraud and intimidation threaten democracy in the European Union candidate country.

In the first round held October 20, Sandu obtained 42 per cent of the ballot but failed to win an outright majority. She is facing Alexandr Stoianoglo, a former prosecutor general, who outperformed polls in the first round with almost 26 per cent of the vote.

A poll released by research company iData indicates a tight race that leans toward a narrow Sandu victory, an outcome that might rely on Moldova’s large diaspora. The presidential role carries significant powers in foreign policy and security.