Orhei mayoral election attracts crowded field
The electoral commission in Orhei has completed the registration of candidates for the post of mayor, with 11 contenders entering the race.
The vacancy follows the resignation of former mayor Tatiana Cociu, who stepped down in December amid pressure from authorities. Of the candidates, five are running as independents, while six represent political parties.
Mix of local figures and political newcomers
Several well-known local figures are among the candidates. Running as independents are the head of the Orhei district, Vasile Adașan, and the city’s deputy mayor, Diana Memet.
Also in the race are Ramiz Ansarov, head of the Azerbaijani diaspora, and businessman Adrian Dulgher, who has previously been associated with the CUB party list.
Another notable кандидат is Victor Perțu, генеральный директор Regia Apă-Canal Orhei, who is running with the party led by Vasile Costiuc. He previously ran in 2024 as part of the “Victory” bloc.
PAS candidate faces criticism over Arena Chișinău record
Particular attention has focused on the candidate nominated by PAS, Sergiu Stanciu, director of Arena Chișinău.
According to reported figures, the venue posted losses of around 20 million lei in 2023, followed by 40 million in 2024 and 37.5 million in 2025. An audit also identified irregularities, including non-transparent procurement procedures, limited competition in selecting a private partner, and the absence of clear risk provisions in contracts.
The management of ticket sales without a modern electronic system was also cited among the issues.
Despite these concerns, PAS has chosen to back Stanciu in the mayoral race, a decision that is likely to remain a point of debate during the campaign.
