The decision of the Democratic Party of Moldova not to withdraw Valentina Buliga from the electoral race contributed to Dorin Chirtoaca’s victory. At least this was suggested by the leader of the Democratic Party Marian Lupu after the exit poll results were announced, Info-Prim Neo reports. ”This result could have been different if Valentina Buliga had not taken part in the race. I reassert that the strategy and tactic used by the PDM was right,” Marian Lupu said in a press briefing. According to Marian Lupu, if the PDM had not fielded a candidate, the votes wouldn’t have gone to the Liberal candidate, but to another candidate. “I’m sure that the percentage won by the PDM’s candidate for mayor of Chisinau wouldn’t have gone to Dorin Chirtoaca. Valentina Buliga’s participation in the race contributed to obtaining the final result for Chisinau municipality,” said Marian Lupu. According to the exit poll, Valentina Buliga won 2.3% of the vote. Dorin Chirtoaca polled 53.1% of the ballot.