On April 30, elections will be held for the position of Governor (Bashkan) of the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia, part of the Republic of Moldova. New Strategy Center publishes a brief analysis explaining the stakes of these elections and who are the candidates, as well as the actors who support them.
In the context of Russia triggering an ample hybrid war to destabilize the Republic of Moldova, the appoinment of a pro-Russian and radical leader in Gagauzia would pave the way for much more tense relations with Moldovan authorities and could generate pro-separatist actions that can increase instability in the country, thus serving Moscow’s interests. Since all eight candidates for Bashkan have predominantly pro-Russian positions, the current government in Chisinau hopes that the elections in Gagauzia will be won by a more moderate politician who is more open to dialogue.