Representatives of civil society who were invited to public discussions on the introduction of the uninominal voting system have differing opinions about the necessity of replacing the electoral system in Moldova. The issue was discussed in the talk show “Emphasis on today” on TVR Moldova channel, IPN reports.

Alexei Buzu, executive director of the Partnership for Development Center, considers there is no need to modify the electoral system. “The Republic of Moldova needs a system that will lead to free and fair elections. We cannot say that the replacement of the electoral system will contribute to free and fair elections. If the political class wants to take into account the people’s will, they should not listen only to the opinions that suit them,” he stated.

Nadejda Hriptievski, programs director at the Legal Resources Center of Moldova, noted the modification of the electoral system now would set a dangerous precedent. “We do not need this and I think the replacement of the electoral system one year before the parliamentary elections would set a dangerous precedent given that we have a defective legal framework. In these conditions, the changing of the electoral system would worsen the situation even more,” she said.

On the other hand, analyst Corneliu Ciurea said most of the population wants the uninominal voting system to be introduced. “When the largest part of society wants this and considers it important, I do not see why the politicians should not consider it important too,” stated the analyst.