The Buiucani Court of Chisinau on April 24 annulled the registration of the Communist Reformist Party (PCR). Contacted by phone by IPN, the party’s leader Ruslan Popa said the decision of the first court will be appealed to the Appeals Court.

“We have 30 days to file the appeal and we will file it. Moreover, until the party remains in the register of parties, it is lawful and can run in elections,” said Ruslan Popa, adding that pressure is being exerted by a party that does not want the Reformist Communists to take part in the local elections.

The Ministry of Justice registered the Communist Reformist Party before last November’s parliamentary elections. The Party of Communists (PCRM) challenged the registration of the PCR in court, arguing this party uses a symbol similar to theirs. In the November 30 legislative elections, the PCR polled almost 5% of the vote.