A television debate ahead of Moldova’s presidential election broke up when pro-European incumbent Maia Sandu failed to show up and one of her two main rivals walked out of the studio.
Mrs, Sandu who is the favorite for the Oct. 20 poll, had declined to confirm in advance whether she would take part in the Tuesday evening debate. But she said she did not wish to debate with “non-valid” candidates, shorthand for politicians backed by business interests or criminal groups.
Former prosecutor general Alexandr Stoianoglo, backed by the pro-Russian opposition Socialists, and Renato Usatii, the twice-elected mayor of Balti, Moldova’s second-largest city, stood in place for the debate.
Mr. Stoianoglo, who was dismissed by Mrs, Sandu in 2021, left the studio, saying he had no questions for fellow challenger Mr. Usatii.
Mrs. Sandu has denounced Russia as one of the biggest threats to Moldova and views her drive to join the European Union as the cornerstone of her policies.
“I put off all my meetings to come here and show some respect for our citizens,” Mr. Stoianoglo said. “I was ready to respond to all the accusations that this government and Ms. Sandu have heaped on me.”
Mr. Usatii told the presenter he would stay to “speak to the people. On Oct. 20, we will be electing a new president, let me repeat, a new president. All we have to do is roll up our sleeves and get to work.”
The latest opinion poll published this week put Maia Sandu comfortably in the lead with 36 % support to 10 % for Mr. Stoianoglo and 7.5 % for Mr. Usatii, who says he wants Moldova to maintain good ties with both the West and Russia.
Voters will also take part in a referendum on changing the constitution to pave the way for EU membership for ex-Soviet republic Moldova.The Socialists say they do not oppose joining Europe but denounce the referendum as a maneuver by Sandu.
A recent survey shows 63% backing for EU membership among decided voters.
