Following the decision of the ACUM bloc to assume the responsibility of governing in this complicated political context, the President of the European People’s Party (EPP) Joseph Daul said the following:

“I would like to highly commend today’s decision of ACUM bloc’s Maia Sandu (PAS) and Andrei Nastase (PPDA) to establish a governing arrangement with PSRM in order to liberate the Republic of Moldova from Plahotniuc and his oligarchic control. I am aware that it was one of the most difficult decisions of their political careers and in the history of their parties. The risks and political divergences between ACUM and PSRM are indeed enormous but the risks of allowing Plahotniuc to control and further destroy Moldova are even greater.

In politics, sometimes we must choose the lesser of two evils. That’s why I am impressed by the courage and bravery of Maia Sandu and Andrei Nastase to take on the great risks of this collaboration to save their people and their country. This decision shows political maturity, patriotism and bravery to put the interests of all Moldovans above party politics.

I expect PSRM to honour its commitment that will be made in front of all Moldovans by voting in favour of the legislative anti-oligarchic package and elect a government led by ACUM. By failing to keep their word, PSRM will be solely responsible for preserving Plahotniuc’s regime, eroding democratic institutions and signing Moldova’s demise.

EPP is very much aware of the enormous pressure Plahotniuc is exerting on all parties to make this collaboration fail. Any provocations or organised unrests will be strongly condemned.

I have always said that democracy finds a way to prevail and autocratic regimes end up collapsing. I am very proud that it is thanks to EPP parties in the Republic of Moldova that we can see a glimmer of hope to restore democracy for Moldovans and their country.”