The first round of Moldova’s first direct presidential election in 20 years provided ample opportunity for voters to express their preference for a new head of state. Fundamental freedoms were respected. The campaign was competitive, though marred by widespread abuse of state resources, biased media coverage and a lack of transparency in campaign finance, the international observers concluded in a preliminary statement released today.

Arta Dade, Special Coordinator and leader of the short-term OSCE observer mission, said the competitive campaign took place against a backdrop of economic hardship and a climate of mistrust in state institutions. “While the voters were provided with real choices in a competitive campaign, some negative aspects of the process, if not addressed, could further undermine voters’ trust that their voices are being heard,” stated the official, adding that the election administration, led by the Central Election Commission, worked in a professional and transparent manner, IPN reports.

Elisabeth Schneider-Schneiter, Head of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe delegation, said the Moldovan people made their choice in a free manner and the voting day was very well organized. “However, some serious and long-standing issues remain unaddressed. Of particular concern are politically biased media, strongly associated with major political parties, and serving as a tool for propaganda. These and other concerns, unless addressed in a timely and effective manner, will erode citizens’ trust in the democratic electoral process,” stated Elisabeth Schneider-Schneiter.

“Moldova has once more proven its commitment to democratic values and administered the election in a professional manner. Unfortunately, I was concerned to see that the elderly and people with disabilities had to face substantial challenges to express their right to vote,” Geir Jøergen Bekkevold, Head of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly delegation. “I encourage the election administration to redouble efforts to guarantee an inclusive process.”

Soltes, Head of the European Parliament delegation, welcomed the fact that more than three quarters of commissioners at polling stations observed, including chairpersons, were women. There are yet concerns over the lack of transparency in the area of campaign finance and the possibilities that this provides for manipulating the media. “This issue requires urgent reform – both in political campaigns and in the funding of political parties,” he stated.

Douglas Wake, Head of the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission, said the election process has so far confirmed that Moldova has an adequate legal framework for holding democratic elections but also that further work is needed to fill gaps and address inconsistencies, in areas such as signature collection for candidate registration, and in ensuring appropriate sanctions for violating campaign rules.

The international election observation mission consists of 280 observers from 41 countries.