Moldova Mayors Clash with Government Over Funding and Power
An alliance known as the "Together" Bloc, composed of the DA Platform, LOC, the Change Party, and CUB, has accused central authorities of exerting unprecedented pressure on mayors.
The Bloc alleges that public funds and external funding are being used as blackmail to coerce mayors into joining the Action and Solidarity Party (PAS). PAS has dismissed these accusations as "political aberrations."
At a press conference, representatives from the Together Bloc called on the government to cease its blackmail tactics and refrain from attempting to draw mayors into PAS. The Bloc cited the Hâncești district as an example, where they allege mayors are being forced to join the ruling party to secure funding for projects financed by external sources, as well as those included in the "European Village" Program.
"In recent years, we have observed a significant increase in the number of tasks assigned to local public authorities (APL)," said Alexandru Bujorean, co-chair of LOC. "These tasks, which include verifying economic activity, maintaining public order, and social protection, are not actually within the APL's purview, and no additional funding has been provided to cover them."
PAS spokesperson Adriana Vlas countered that the Together Bloc's statements are "political aberrations." She asserted that the government works with all mayors, regardless of their political affiliation.
"The government has demonstrably avoided discriminating against mayors on the basis of political affiliation," Vlas said. "As an example, since the inception of the 'European Village' program, 127 mayors from PDM or PSDE have received funding for projects under the program. Additionally, 87 projects have been awarded to PAS mayors, 80 to PSRM mayors, 67 to independent candidates, and 40 to the DA Platform. All applications are meticulously reviewed, and funding is awarded based on the projects' demonstrated need and financial justification."
Significantly, over 80 percent of mayors have submitted applications for financial support under the "European Village 2024" Program. Nearly half of these applications concern projects related to drinking water supply and sewerage systems.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
