Polls & Research

Moldovans Lose Confidence in Key Politicians

(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Fewer people in Moldova appear satisfied with the performance of their three top political leaders, according to a poll by IMAS. 43 per cent of respondents express confidence in Moldovan president Vladimir Voronin, down six points since March.

The confidence rating for current prime minister Vasili Tarlev stands at 35 per cent—down nine points in five months. Parliament speaker Marian Lupu holds lower numbers, at 28 per cent.

In 2001, Moldova became the first former Soviet Republic to democratically elect a communist administration. The Communist Party of Moldova (PCRM) won 49.9 per cent of the vote and 71 seats. The Parliament later picked Voronin as president.

Legislative elections in March 2005 gave the ruling PCRM 56 seats—five less than the 61 required to elect a president—with 46.1 per cent of the vote. The Democratic Moldova Bloc (BMD) won 35 seats. In April, the Parliament re-elected Voronin to the presidency with 75 votes. Voronin retained Tarlev as prime minister. Lupu is also a member of the PCRM.

On Aug. 26, Voronin addressed the nation on television and declared: "The republic failed to gain independence in the true sense of this word, because of mistakes that had been made during all these years." The Moldovan president urged citizens to seek further independence in economic, territorial and energy matters, adding, "European integration is our strategic direction. We understand that our country is not ready to join the European Union (EU) tomorrow. But we cannot simply neglect European processes—we have to take efforts to turn into a country that will meet European standards."

Polling Data

Do you have confidence in the following politicians?
(Much confidence, Some confidence answers listed)