A rally is set to take place this Sunday, April 26, in the central square of Comrat, where residents of Gagauzia are expected to gather to voice their concerns to authorities in Chișinău.
The initiative was announced by public figure Mihail Vlah, who called on both current and former officials of the автономия to take a clear and public stance.
Gagauzia rally call gains momentum
In a message shared on social media, Mihail Vlah addressed a broad audience: the current bashkan, deputies, mayors and local councillors, as well as former office holders, public figures and community leaders.
The appeal, he said, is directed at everyone “who cares about Gagauzia.” His central message was that the moment requires clarity and public engagement.
“Residents of Gagauzia see everything and remember everything: who stands with their people and who stays aside at a decisive moment,” he wrote.
Concerns over rights and economic pressures
In a video address, Vlah also highlighted a number of issues affecting the region. He pointed to rising prices for basic goods, noting that many households are still recovering from the winter period.
At the same time, he raised concerns about what he described as attempts to limit the autonomy’s powers, contrasting this with continued support for cultural events and public celebrations.
He questioned whether public participation is limited to festivals and official events, while more sensitive political issues receive less engagement.
Call for participation and legal clarity
The rally is scheduled for 12:00, a timing that, according to Vlah, was chosen to accommodate residents’ daily routines.
He also urged people to inform relatives and friends and to attend the gathering, framing it as a moment of collective expression.
Among the key messages expected to be raised is a call for elections to be conducted in accordance with Moldovan law, as well as for respect for the autonomy’s status.
“We want elections to be held in line with the law adopted in 1994. We want the centre to respect the autonomy,” he said.
Awaiting turnout and response
Organisers say the event will provide an open platform for residents to express their concerns. The turnout may offer an indication of the level of public mobilisation in the region.
Whether the demonstration will influence the dialogue between Gagauzia and central authorities remains uncertain. Recent meetings between regional representatives and President Maia Sandu have not led to visible breakthroughs.
For now, attention turns to Sunday’s rally and the response it may generate in Chișinău.
