Moldova’s pro-Western president looks set to narrowly win the election

Moldova’s pro-Western President Maia Sandu appeared set to win a second term in office, narrowly defeating his Russia-friendly opponent, according to election data on Sunday.

It came as key votes in the EU candidate country were being counted after claims of voter fraud, election interference and intimidation.

With nearly 95% of the vote counted in the second round of Sunday’s presidential election, Ms Sandu received 52% of the vote, according to the Central Election Commission (CEC), compared to 48% for Oleksandr Stoyanoglo, a former prosecutor. general, who is supported by the pro-Russian Socialist Party.

According to the CEC, when local polling stations closed at 21:00 (19:00 GMT), the turnout was more than 1.68 million people – about 54% of eligible voters.

Moldova’s large diaspora generally favored Ms. Sandu in the runoff, and those votes are counted last, suggesting the incumbent will win.

In the first round, which took place on October 20, Ms. Sandu won 42% of the vote, but was unable to obtain an outright majority. Mr. Stoyanoglo topped the polls in the first round, gaining almost 26% of the vote.

The poll, published by research firm iData, showed a tight race tipping Sandu to win by a narrow margin, an outcome that will depend on the diaspora vote.

The office of president carries significant powers in areas such as foreign policy and national security, and has a four-year term.