Promo-LEX Mission for Observing the Presidential Elections and Republican Constitutional Referendum on October 20, 2024: Latest elections day data

20 octombrie 2024
10:00 pm

The Promo-LEX Observation Mission (OM) for the Presidential Elections and Republican Constitutional Referendum on October 20, 2024, notes 1188 alerts reported by Promo-LEX observers until 10:00 PM. The central team of the Promo-LEX Observation Mission (OM) processed 130 of these cases as incidents.

According to observers, out of the total of 614 polling stations monitored at closing, three polling stations did not close at 9:00 PM. The majority of Promo-LEX observers rated the performance of the members of the Electoral Bureau (PEB) during the opening process as good and very good, with a percentage of 98.7%.

Furthermore, the members of the PEB demonstrated a high level of cooperation, providing the requested information in 99.5% of cases.

Incidents reported during the voting process and at the polling stations closing: 

Incidents related to the failure to maintain order in the polling station and within a 100-meter radius.

Presence of advertising materials, displays, and electoral panels within the polling station vicinity (100 meters from the polling location) – 4 cases. It is essential to emphasize that the responsibility for the removal of such advertising materials rests with the Local Public Administration (APL). This measure is designed to safeguard voters from external influences while they exercise their right to vote.

1. PS 25/74, Orhei, Susleni: Within the polling station, electoral materials (calendars) supporting a candidate were discovered. Upon notification by an observer, these materials were promptly removed.
2. PS 4/36, Anenii Noi, Telița: Electoral materials supporting a candidate are displayed on the information board of the local government.
3. PS 5/13, Basarabeasca, Iordanovca: Leaflets in favor of a candidate were observed on an information board within the polling station premises.
4. PS 2/27, Bălți: Two promotional materials were displayed on the wall inside the polling station.

Electoral agitation or negative campaigning (PR) within the 100-meter radius and/or inside the polling station (PS) aimed at influencing voter choices – 7 cases. Electoral agitation or the dissemination of negative information (negative PR) is strictly prohibited on election day, both within the polling station and within a 100-meter radius, to prevent undue influence on voters’ decisions.

1. PS 01/204, Chișinău, Râșcani: At 18:12, a voter arrived at the polling station in an intoxicated state. Before entering the voting booth, he turned to the observers and asked, “The second one is Maia Sandu, right?” A representative from the Renaissance Party advised him to place the stamp next to candidate number 4, saying, “Put the stamp on the fourth one.” The president and members of the PEB did not notice this discussion.
2. Polling Station 02/22, Bălți: At approximately 17:40, an individual attempted to enter the polling station while carrying a European Union flag. The PEB president denied him entry and requested that he leave the polling area. Upon exiting the station, the individual was stopped by a police officer, who asked him to vacate the area, warning that further measures would be taken if he did not comply.
3. Polling Station 36/50 ATUG, Congaz: At 18:21, an elderly voter entered the polling station and shouted in Gagauz, “Where is Sandu? I will at least get her out.” The PEB members addressed his behavior, and the individual exercised his right to vote before leaving the station.
4. Polling Station 38/122, Republic of Italy, Bologna: At 18:42, a female voter exhibited aggressive behavior by speaking loudly to the PEB. Following this interaction, she exited the polling station while chanting Maia Sandu’s name and continued to do so even after leaving the polling station. This behavior ceased after a PEB member insisted that she stop.
5. Polling Station 38/41, Republic of France, Nice: A group of five young men (under 30 years old) displayed inappropriate behavior inside the polling station, shouting “Down with Maia Sandu.” Subsequently, the individuals were dispersed by the PEB members and were allowed to enter the station one at a time. They were similarly escorted during their exit after casting their votes.
6. Polling Station 16/38, Edineț, Hlinaia: At 19:53, a voter loudly declared his choice as he placed his ballot into the ballot box.
7. Polling Station 38/129, Republic of Italy, Rimini: At 18:15, a woman entered the polling station holding a yellow flower and repeatedly stated that she was voting for Maia Sandu. The PEB members of invited her to refrain from repeating this and reminded her that voting is confidential.

Unauthorized presence within the polling station or within a 100-meter radius – 6 cases. This prohibition aims to ensure the integrity and transparency of the electoral process, free from any undue influence.

1. PS 32/23 Ștefan Vodă, Răscăieți: An unauthorized individual was observed multiple times in the vicinity of the polling station, including inside the building. After being warned, the individual exited the polling station.
2. PS 29/46 Soroca, Racovăț: Throughout the day, an unauthorized person (a representative of the BP Victorie) periodically entered the polling station to engage in discussions and collect information from the representative of the political party present within the polling station. The PEB president issued a warning, stating that their presence was not permitted without accreditation, except for the purpose of voting. Nevertheless, the individual continued to return intermittently to obtain the sought-after information.
3. PS 22/14 Leova, Beștemac: A group of unauthorized individuals was observed approximately 40 meters from the entrance of the polling station. The PEB president requested police intervention, after which the individuals left the polling station.
4. PS 38/72 Republic of Greece, Athens: At 18:54, the Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to Greece, Andrei Popov, returned to the polling station. He stated that he had visited other polling stations in Athens to observe the voting process. Two minutes later, two additional individuals entered the polling station, including a Moldovan woman who had previously voted and her Greek husband. It was noted that the woman is a restaurant owner, and the ambassador took the opportunity to introduce her to the members of the polling station. The members of the polling station did not issue any warnings.
5. PS 18/5 Florești: At 19:32, the mayor of the locality entered the polling station. He greeted everyone, inquired about the number of people who had voted up to that point, wished everyone good luck, and left shortly thereafter. He was present in the room for approximately 3-4 minutes and did not engage in any private discussions. The PEB president merely smiled and responded to his greetings.
6. PS 29/14 Soroca, Badiceni: Members of the polling station brought a mobile ballot box to the boarding school in Badiceni. One of the voters, named Aliona, accompanied two individuals into the voting booth. In the hallway, near the door, another person shouted, “Aliona, vote for Maia Sandu,” referring to those she was assisting.

Violations of ballot secrecy (photographing marked ballots, displaying the marked ballots; improper placement of ballots that allows visibility of voter choices) – 36 cases. Voters are prohibited from taking photos of their marked ballots, showing their ballots, and placing ballots in the ballot box in a manner that makes their voting choices visible.

1. PS 21/02 Ialoveni: At 17:30, a voter was observed taking a photograph of their ballot. No corrective action was implemented to address this violation.
2. PS 21/37 Ialoveni, Ruseștii Noi: At 17:46, a voter attempted to photograph their ballot within the voting booth; however, the intervention of PEB members effectively thwarted this attempt.
3. PS 38/112, Republic of Italy, Venice: At 16:55, a voter expressed the intention to photograph their ballot. The PEB president noticed this action and promptly issued a warning to the voter, who ultimately refrained from proceeding with their initial intent.
4. PS 30/41 Strășeni, Sireți: At 15:30, a voter was seen photographing their ballot within the voting booth. Following the intervention and request of the PEB members, as well as the police, the photograph was subsequently deleted.
5. PS 37/21, Dubăsari, Doroțcaia: At 17:52, a voter was observed showing their marked ballot to another voter. The individual then proceeded to cast their vote and exited the polling station.
6. PS 38/72, Hellenic Republic, Athens: A voter was observed photographing their ballot inside the voting booth. Members of the PEB prohibited this action and requested the voter to delete the photograph. Ultimately, the voter complied with the request.
7. PS 01/064 Chișinău, Botanica: At 18:40, a voter was seen taking a photograph of their ballot. At the insistence of the PEB members, the individual deleted the photograph and exited the polling station.
8. PS 38/179, Romania, Bucharest: At 18:09, within the polling station, a voter was observed photographing their ballot inside the voting booth. The PEB president intervened and informed the voter that such actions were prohibited. The voter subsequently deleted the photograph in the presence of the president.
9. PS 01/259 Chișinău, Durlești: At 18:41, a voter was noted photographing their ballot. Following the insistence of authorized monitors overseeing the electoral process, the individual deleted the photograph and exited the polling station.
10. PS 02/54 Bălți: At 18:03, a voter was seen photographing their ballot within the voting booth. At the request of the members of the PEB, the photograph was deleted.
11. PS 01/284 Chișinău, Ciorescu: At 18:45, a voter photographed their ballot. At the request of the members of the PEB, the individual deleted the photograph and exited the polling station.
12. PS 01/231 Chișinău, Riscani: At 18:39, a voter photographed their ballot. Upon the request of the members of the PEB, the individual deleted the photograph and exited the polling station.
13. PS 38/69, Federal Republic of Germany, Hanover: At 16:30, a voter was seen photographing ballots. The PEB members observed this action and issued a warning regarding the prohibition against photographing ballots. Ultimately, the photograph was deleted.
14. PS 01/036 Chișinău, Botanica: At 18:08, a voter photographed their ballot. They did not comply with the request from the PEB members to delete the photograph. Consequently, the voter was escorted to the police station.
15. PS 01/088 Chișinău, Buiucani: At 18:39, a voter was observed photographing their ballot. At the request of the PEB members, the individual deleted the photograph.
16. PS 1/088, Chișinău, Buiucani: At 18:39, a PEB member observed a voter photographing their ballot. At the member’s request, the voter deleted the photograph and proceeded to exercise their right to vote.
17. PS 36/54 UTAG, Copceac: At 16:10, a voter was noted photographing their ballot within the voting booth. Upon the request of the PEB members, the voter initially refused to delete the photograph. Consequently, police intervention was requested, leading to the preparation of a report and the issuance of a fine to the voter.
18. PS 36/54 UTAG, Copceac: At 18:35, a voter was observed photographing their ballot in the voting booth. Following the involvement and request of the PEB members, the individual deleted the photograph.
19. PS 01/095 Chișinău, Buiucani: At 14:27, two voters (a husband and wife) presented themselves at the polling station. After making her selection, the female voter indicated to her husband how he should mark his ballot. The PEB members did not intervene in this instance.
20. PS 38/170, Republic of Poland, Warsaw: At 15:46, a voter was observed photographing their ballot within the voting booth. This action went unnoticed by the PEB members.
21. PS 6/35 Briceni, Slobozia-Șirăuți: At 16:40, a voter, after marking their ballot, displayed it to the PEB members and began to campaign regarding the referendum, urging others to vote “NO.” The PEB members requested the individual to leave the polling station, and after the voter refused, they were escorted out.
22. PS 7/10, Cahul: A voter entered the voting booth and photographed their ballot. The voter was warned that this constituted a violation; however, they proceeded to cast their vote and deposit the ballot in the ballot box without deleting the photograph.
23. PS 38/72, Hellenic Republic, Athens: At 19:13, a voter photographed their ballot. A PEB member cautioned the individual to delete the photograph.
24. PS 38/228, Republic of Turkey, Istanbul: At 20:10, a voter was observed photographing their ballot. Upon request from a PEB member, the photograph was deleted.
25. PS 01/187 Chișinău, Ciocana: At 19:48, a voter was seen photographing their ballot (with the flash activated on their phone). The PEB president requested the voter to delete the photograph. After the individual complied, they claimed to have not taken any pictures but later admitted that it was for personal keepsake.
26. PS 38/182, Romania, Iași: At 20:03, a voter photographed their ballot. The PEB president was alerted, and the photograph was subsequently deleted.
27. PS 01/259 Chișinău, Durlești: At 19:03, a voter was observed photographing their ballot. The individual did not comply with the PEB president’s request to delete the photograph and subsequently exited the polling station.
28. PS 38/179, Romania, Bucharest: At 20:24, a voter was noted photographing their ballot inside the voting booth. The PEB president intervened, informing the voter that such actions were prohibited. The voter deleted the photograph.
29. PS 36/43 UTAG, Chirsova: At 20:18, a voter was observed photographing their ballot. This case went unnoticed by the PEB members, and the voter ultimately left the polling station without deleting the photograph.
30. PS 01/180 Chișinău, Ciocana: At 18:12, two voters (a husband and wife) were observed photographing their ballots. They exited the polling station without deleting the photographs.
31. PS 38/47, Federal Republic of Germany, Berlin: At 17:30, a voter attempted to photograph their ballot. They were cautioned by the PEB members, after which the photograph was deleted.
32. PS 38/153, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, London: At 19:02, a voter intended to photograph their ballot; however, they were intercepted and subsequently refrained from taking the photograph. The photograph that had been taken was deleted.
33. PS 16/38, Edineț, Hlinaia: At 19:53, a voter photographed their ballot. The PEB members witnessed this but took no action.
34. PS 38/34, French Republic, Montreuil: At 20:12, a voter was warned not to photograph their ballot. Despite this warning, the voter proceeded to take a photograph. However, under the insistence of the PEB president, the photograph was deleted.
35. PS 38/56, Federal Republic of Germany, Bremen: At 18:29, a voter photographed their ballot. The individual later deleted the photograph at the request of a PEB member.
36. PS 36/5 ATUG, Comrat: Members of the PEB, who visited the nursing home in Comrat, failed to ensure the confidentiality of the voting process. They arrived without a voting booth. As a result, at least 25 voters cast their votes without the assurance of ballot secrecy. In some instances, the stamp was applied without the voter’s explicit intent being manifested, by the individual assisting them—the medical professional. Reactions were noted from some voters.

Unjustified group voting – 8 cases. Voting must be conducted in a secret and freely expressed manner. Group voting undermines these principles and may facilitate control over the voting process or exert undue influence on the voter.

1. PS 01/097 Chișinău, Buiucani: Two elderly voters, though capable of exercising their voting rights independently, entered the same voting booth and insisted on voting together. Members of the PEB warned them that this was not permitted; however, the voters did not comply.
2. PS 37/21, Dubăsari, Doroțcaia: At 17:22, two voters entered separate voting booths. Subsequently, one voter entered the booth of the other and indicated something to them.
3. PS 36/59 ATUG, Dezghingea: At 17:41, two voters (a mother and daughter) entered the polling station, each using separate voting booths. However, from the adjacent booth, the daughter provided instructions to her mother regarding whom and which option to vote for. The PEB members of did not intervene in this situation.
4. PS 01/095 Chișinău, Buiucani: Two young voters cast their ballots in the same voting booth. They were accompanied by a young child, to whom they directed where to place the stamp. The PEB members of did not intervene.
5. PS 25/04 Orhei: At 18:12, a group of approximately eight individuals entered the polling station in a boisterous manner, discussing, among other topics, the placement of the stamp in favor of the “NO” option on the referendum. Among these individuals were two elderly voters with visual impairments, who voted alongside their grandchildren, who were also advocating for the “NO” option on the referendum.
6. PS 25/04 Orhei: In the voting booth, a mother and son, both exhibiting mobility impairments, entered together. They conferred and marked their ballots with the “voted” stamp.
7. PS 36/20 UTAG, Vulcănești: Within the voting booth, two voters were observed; one of them marked the ballots with the voting stamp for both and together deposited the ballots into the ballot box. The PEB president did not respond to this occurrence.
8. PS 16/47 Edineț, Tîrnova: At 19:16, two voters were observed together in a voting booth. The individuals were not elderly and did not demonstrate any special needs for assistance. The PEB president intervened with a verbal observation to the voters, to which they apologized.

Incidents related to vote influencing

Rumors, attempts or even situations of material or monetary rewards offered to voters in the 100 m perimeter of the polling station to determine the voters’ vote – 5 cases. Such practices are strictly prohibited and pose a significant threat to the integrity of the electoral process.

1. PS 38/194, Federația Rusă, Moscova: At 14:00, within a distance of less than 10 meters, a group of volunteers dressed in white jackets, presenting themselves as representatives of the Cultural and Educational Center of Moldova in Russia, distributed invitations to voters upon their departure from the polling stations. These invitations were for a nearby establishment, the “Хинкальная” Café, located at Neghina Street 15. Entry to the café was restricted to individuals possessing these invitations.
2. PS 16/38 Edineț, Hlinaia: At 18:13, a representative of the Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova (PSRM) was observed making jokes with nearly every voter after they received the “I Voted” sticker. The representative stopped each voter, saying, “With this voucher, you can go to such-and-such store and receive 100g.” The PEB members witnessed this but did not take any action, citing that the individual was a local resident known to everyone and was merely joking. This behavior persisted throughout the day.
3. PS 15/4, Dubăsari, Coșnița: At 17:10, near the entrance to the polling station, a group of 5-7 citizens was observed discussing monetary rewards. They stated, “We were told that we would be paid tomorrow, but maybe at the end of the week. Be careful how you vote.” The electoral short-term observer (STO) did not hear the specific amount being discussed, nor did they ascertain which candidate had promised the reward. Although the PEB president was aware of the situation, voting was not restricted. However, PEB members remained vigilant to prevent any potential electoral fraud.
4. PS 37/39, Stânga Nistrului: At approximately 15:45, a vehicle was observed in the parking lot adjacent to the polling station, containing five individuals. These individuals greeted voters, directed them towards the polling station, and provided other instructions. During their interactions, they were seen exchanging money while shaking hands. The vehicle had been parked for an extended period.
5. PS 14/6 Drochia: According to statements from the PEB president, a PEB member handed a sum of 40 lei and a list to an individual. Another member witnessed this and reported it to the president. The case was documented by the police, and it was confirmed that the money was intended for a trip to the church. Additionally, the 2nd-level electoral districts (CECE II) was notified, which convened a meeting and decided to remove that member from the polling station.

Organized transport of voters (coaches, minibuses or other transport units that would not tipically be present around) – 5 cases. Adhering to this prohibition is essential for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.

1. SV 1/73, Chișinău, Buiucani: A repeated presence was noted of a black Volkswagen minivan, lacking registration plates or other distinctive markings, which was transporting elderly individuals to the polling station. The minivan was observed in close proximity to the polling station, with 9-10 individuals disembarking each time. The driver entered the polling station but, upon realizing he was being monitored, promptly left the location. Furthermore, a representative from the Vasile Tarlev campaign (Partidul Viitorul Moldovei) was seen conversing with some of the transported individuals regarding “how they should vote.” The PEB president did not take any action in this regard.
2. SV 37/18 and 37/19, Stânga Nistrului, Cocieri: Between the hours of 07:00 and 15:00, in the village of Cocieri, 11 vehicles were monitored and observed making organized trips to transport voters to the polling station on multiple occasions.
3. SV 38/182, România, Iași: At 20:38, a large group of elderly individuals (approximately 20 people) arrived at the polling station. Conversations between two Russian-speaking individuals indicated that these individuals had been directed to come to the polling station to exercise their voting rights.
4. SV 01/101, Chișinău, Buiucani: Near the polling station, in the parking lot of the “Speranța” Sports School, a group of 6-8 individuals was observed heading towards the polling station. In close proximity to the school gate was a VW Transporter with the registration number “STAS 447.” The driver was seen counting something with the lights on. When he noticed he was being photographed by a Promo-LEX observer, he turned off the lights, closed the door, and drove away.
5. Florești: According to Promo-LEX observers, members of the “Block of Victory” had representatives positioned adjacent to the polling station (40) and in each locality, equipped with a service vehicle to transport voters upon request for a fee of 500 lei.

Incidents of intimidation or acts of violence involving voters, PEB members, observers, media, or other persons – 6 cases. Intimidation can take various forms, ranging from verbal threats to physical violence, and can significantly impact participants in the electoral process.

1. PS 37/15, Căușeni, Hagimus: At 16:45, a supporter of Irina Vlah, identifying himself as Victor Tabac, arrived at the polling station. His behavior was characterized by arrogance and disrespect, expressing outrage over the denial of a woman’s right to vote due to her lack of a accompanying document. The PEB president intervened to de-escalate the conflict; however, the individual continued to create a disturbance, exiting the premises with inappropriate conduct.
2. PS 22/07, Leova: At 17:00, it was reported that the PEB president intimidated a Promo-LEX observer by stating that any incident reporting must be discussed with her beforehand. She referred to him as a “child with a star on his forehead” and made several remarks suggesting he was overstepping his bounds, thereby intimidating the observer.
3. PS 38/141, Republica Italiană, Trento: Between 16:00 and 17:00, a member of the PEB representing the PSRM accused virtually everyone present, particularly the PEB president, the SAIS Elections operators, and even Promo-LEX representatives, of being affiliated with the PAS party. Additionally, she boycotted the PEB’s activities for an extended period, failing to fulfill her responsibilities as a member of the polling station.
4. PS 20/38, Hîncești, Lăpușna: An intoxicated voter refused to place their ballots into the ballot box. The PEB president called the police due to the individual’s disruptive behavior. The police escorted the voter out of the polling station, while a PEB member forcibly collected the ballots and deposited them into the ballot box.
5. PS 25/04, Orhei: At 20:15, an intoxicated voter entered the polling station, displaying aggressive behavior by shouting and insulting representatives of Alexandr Stoianoglo (PSRM) and the PR. The PEB president requested police intervention to manage the situation. Consequently, the voter calmed down, cast his vote, and departed.
6. SV 13/22, Dondușeni, Sudarca: At 18:55, an intoxicated voter presented himself at the polling station and subsequently voted. At 20:20, he returned to the polling station wishing to vote again. When the operators informed him that he had already voted that day, he alleged that someone had voted in his stead. The police were summoned to the scene. After reviewing the surveillance footage, it was confirmed that the individual had indeed voted earlier.

Incidents related to the organization of voting process

Ballot boxes were not sealed according to legal procedures/ broken/ damaged or missing seals on ballot boxes – 10 cases. According to existing legislation, ballot boxes must be secured with four seals to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.

1. PS01/028, Chișinău, Botanica: The ballot boxes are not properly sealed; one box has 4 seals, while another has 3 seals. According to the PEB president, one seal was broken.
2. PS 25/005, Orhei: The stationary ballot box in use was sealed with 3 seals, while the 2 reserve ballot boxes are sealed with 2 seals and 1 box with 3 seals. The mobile ballot box is sealed with 2 seals.
3. PS 16/035, Edineț, Hăncăuț: The stationary ballot boxes have only 3 seals.
4. PS 21/17, Ialoveni, Dănceni: At 18:00, when two PEB members returned from the village with the mobile ballot box, it was observed that it was not sealed. The PEB president sealed the mobile ballot box over an hour after returning to the polling station.
5. PS 9/18, Călărași, Codru: The stationary ballot box had only 2 seals. The PEB president was notified, and the other 2 seals were applied.
6. PS 30/47, Strășeni, Zubrești: The stationary ballot boxes were sealed with only 2 seals each. The PEB president argued that there was not enough time to seal the ballot boxes according to legal procedures. Following the observer’s report, the missing seals were applied.
7. PS 16/22, Edineț, Brînzeni: Two stationary ballot boxes were sealed with 2 seals each. The PEB president explained that they received fewer seals.
8. PS 1/79, Chișinău, Buiucani: The ballot boxes were sealed with only 3 seals instead of 4. The PEB president communicated that they needed to keep 6 seals in reserve for the bags.
9. PS 29/7, Soroca: The stationary ballot box is sealed with only 3 seals.
10. PS 25/67, Orhei, Semănanca: The mobile ballot box was sealed with 2 seals. The president noticed but did not react.

Inadequate storage of undistributed ballots, which were not kept in a secure safe or cabinet within the polling station – 1 case. It is important to note that undistributed ballots must be stored in accordance with legal regulations to ensure the integrity and security of the electoral process.

1. PS 4/36, Anenii Noi, Telița: The unallocated ballot papers are kept on the table of the PEB president, not in a safe or in a cabinet.

Interruption of the filming process for electoral operations throughout the voting day – 18 cases. Any disruption in filming can raise suspicions and undermine public confidence in the integrity of the elections.

1. PS 18/066, Florești, Vărvăreuca: The video camera was damaged after 14:00. An elector tripped over the wire, resulting in the breakage of the video camera. An act of finding was drafted to document the damage incurred.
2. PS 01/297, Chișinău, Tohatin: At 18:20, the mobile team visited the polling station. Observers determined that the video camera was not operational. The PEB president explained that due to technical issues (the camera was likely defective), the recording process had not taken place throughout the day. He also stated that the information was reported to the Central Electoral Commission (CEC) in the morning.
3. PS 20/035, Hâncești, Fîrlădeni: At 18:20, it was observed that the video camera was not recording the voting process. The PEB president attempted to resolve the issue upon the arrival of the mobile team, but without success.
4. PS 29/32, Soroca, Holoșnița: The filming of the voting process did not commence from the opening of the polling station due to the memory card being full. As of 18:30, the issue remained unresolved.
5. PS 18/55, Florești, Cenușa: Throughout the day, the video camera was non-functional. An act of finding was drawn up to document this situation.
6. PS 31/15, Șoldănești, Dobrușa: The video camera was non-operational due to technical malfunctions. The PEB president is aware of this issue.
7. PS 29/59, Soroca, Regina-Maria: Upon entering the polling station, the observer found that the video camera was turned off, citing a lack of available power outlets. Following this observation, the PEB president reconnected the video camera.
8. PS 6/34, Briceni, Pererîta: The video camera was connected but not set to record. After this observation, the PEB president initiated the recording.
9. PS 38/141, Republic of Italy, Trento: At 18:40, the video camera ceased recording due to the memory card being full. This issue was reported by a member of the polling station, and solutions are currently being sought.
10. PS 38/141, Republic of Italy, Trento: At 18:40, the video camera ceased recording due to the memory card being full. This issue was reported by a member of the polling station, and solutions are currently being sought.
11. PS 31/11, Șoldănești, Cotiujenii Mari: Since 19:30, the video camera has been disconnected. The PEB president has drafted an act of finding regarding this situation.
12. PS 20/52, Hîncești, Onești: At 20:04, the observer noted that the video camera was connected but not recording. Following the observer’s report, the recording was initiated.
13. PS 12/10, Criuleni, Cimișeni: At 21:03, the video camera was disconnected by a PEB member. As of now, the camera has not yet been reconnected.
14. PS 38/223, USA, Las Vegas: At 08:15 local time, a voter unintentionally touched the camera, resulting in a change in its position and directing the filming downwards. The incident was detected by PEB members approximately five minutes later. By 09:19, the position of the filming camera was fully adjusted.
15. PS 01/080, Chișinău, Buiucani: Following the declaration of the voting process as closed, the video camera was not positioned to record the unsealing of the ballot boxes and the counting of votes. The camera was connected only at 21:29 after an observation made by the Promo-LEX observer. According to the operator, he received a message indicating that the camera was supposed to record between 07:00 and 21:00.
16. PS 01/202, Chișinău, Rîscani: When the vote counting commenced, the camera, like throughout the day, was turned off. The reason for the camera’s malfunction is unknown; the SAIS Elections operator contacted the CEC, but no resolution was achieved. A report was drafted indicating that the camera was not operational.
17. PS 37/24, Florești, Sănătăuca: From 07:45 to 21:00, the video camera could not be connected.
18. PS 02/48, Bălți: At 21:24, the video camera was disconnected. After approximately one minute of disconnection, one of the operators intervened and reconnected the camera to an alternate power source.

Deficiencies in the operation of SAIS Elections (suspension of operation; situations when SAIS Elections indicates that the voter voted, and he claims that he did not vote) – 7 cases. If the SAIS Elections becomes inoperable, it could lead to bottlenecks in the voter registration process. This system plays a crucial role in ensuring that voters are registered accurately and helps prevent multiple voting.

1. PS 01/206, Chișinău, Râșcani. During a verification in the SAIS Elections, some voters were informed that they were scheduled to vote in Ungheni. Upon arriving at the polling station in Ungheni, SAIS Elections indicated that these individuals had already voted in Chișinău. The voters completed their voting process, and the PEB 206 prepared a record of the erroneous vote.
2. PS 01/255, Chișinău, Durlești. When verifying a voter’s information in SAIS Elections system, it was communicated that the individual was not assigned to a polling station for the date of the election, despite the identification document indicating otherwise. The voter was offered the option to vote on the supplemental list; however, they refused, expressing indignation over their absence from the primary list. Since SAIS Elections indicated that the voter had been marked as a participant, police intervention was required, and the voter had to submit a refusal to participate in the election.
3. PS 01/241, Chișinău, Râșcani. During the verification of a voter’s information in SAIS Elections, it was communicated that they had already voted in Spain. The president of the electoral body contacted the CEC (Central Electoral Commission) and was informed that the individual could not vote due to the fraudulent use of their identity. The voter was strongly advised to report to the police station to file a complaint. No formal complaint was made at the station regarding this situation, and the individual did not vote at the station.
4. PS 01/220, Chișinău, Râșcani. A voter presented themselves at the polling station but was unable to vote because SAIS System indicated that they had already voted at another station. The voter claimed they had not voted there and were informed during the verification in SAIS that they were assigned to this specific station. The voter was denied the opportunity to vote and was advised to return to the previous station, where they had already been marked on the lists.
5. PS 01/82, Chișinău, Buiucani. Some voters with valid residency permits could not be identified in SAIS Elections. Consequently, they voted on the supplemental lists.
6. PS 01/115, Chișinău, Centru. At 18:14, a female voter approached the polling station claiming that she had not voted, yet the SAIS records indicated she had voted at another station. The PEB president contacted the CEC, which confirmed that it was a system error and authorized the voter to cast her vote. Following this incident, a formal complaint was submitted and registered.
7. PS 38/223, United States of America, Las Vegas. At 07:05, it was noted that the SAIS Elections operators were unable to enter voter data for more than 20 minutes due to a malfunction in SAIS Elections.

Irregularities in the electoral lists – 6 cases. 

1. PS 01/086, Chișinău, Buiucani. A voter identified his deceased wife in the electoral list, despite her having passed away a significant time ago.
2. PS 30/04, Strășeni. At 17:40, during the verification of data by the SAIS Elections operator, a voter was not identified as being assigned to the respective polling station. He was registered as lacking a residency permit, even though the address on his identification document corresponded to the respective polling station. The voter was permitted to vote, having been registered on the supplemental list.
3. PS 30/06, Strășeni. At 17:34, during the verification of data by the SAIS Elections operator, a voter was not identified as being assigned to the respective polling station. He was registered as lacking a residency permit, even though the address on his identification document corresponded to the respective polling station. The voter was permitted to vote, having been registered on the supplemental list.
4. PS 02/38, Bălți. Between 16:36 and 18:10, at least five voters could not be found in the SAIS Elections system at the respective polling station. They were allowed to vote and were included on the supplemental lists.
5. PS 01/99, Chișinău, Buiucani. At 15:32, a voter, despite having a residency permit in the area of the polling station, presented himself to exercise his right to vote but was not found on the electoral list. The voter was able to exercise his right to vote, having been added to the supplemental list.
6. PS 30/06, Strășeni. At 18:54, a voter, although possessing a residency permit in the area of the polling station, could not be found on the electoral list. As a result, he voted, being included on the supplemental list.

Other – 11 cazuri.

1. PS 01/210, Chișinău, Râșcani. At 17:46, a woman took two ballots, cast her vote for the presidential election, but tore the referendum ballot and refused to surrender it. The PEB president intervened, and the voter eventually left the torn ballot behind. The president took the ballot with the intention of nullifying it.
2. PS 30/15, Strășeni, Cojușna. There was a power outage for approximately five minutes; however, the polling station continued its operations during this time.
3. PS 26/11, Rezina, Cogîlniceni. At the polling station, the representative of the PSRM compiled a list of individuals who had voted up to that point.
4. PS 38/122, Republic of Italy, Bologna. At 19:10, it was announced that the voting process would be halted due to a report that the polling station might be mined, following a phone call received by a staff member in the room. Local authorities were notified, and all individuals were evacuated.
5. PS 38/223, USA, Las Vegas. The polling station was not equipped with laptops. The first laptop was brought in only at 08:30. The PEB president attempted to connect the second laptop but reported that the VPN was not functioning, making it impossible to connect the laptop. By 09:56, there were two operators present, but only one functional laptop.
6. PS 8/10, Cantemir, Capaclia. During the verification of the voter’s IDNP by the SAIS Elections operator, it was indicated that the voter had already exercised his right to vote at another polling station (Republican Clinical Hospital “T. Moșneaga, 29 N. Testemițeanu St., Chisinau, Center sector) at 15:49. The voter claimed that he had not voted. The PEB president took action, and it was established that it was a mistake. An official record was created, but the voter did not cast his ballot.
7. PS 36/13 ATUG, Ceadîr-Lunga. At 20:45, a voter presented a foreign identification document (her sister’s ID card) at the polling station and attempted to vote. The SAIS Elections operators observed that the identification document was foreign and did not permit her to vote.
8. PS 20/46, Hîncești, Mingir. Around 20:34, a fire occurred in a room adjacent to the polling station, resulting in a power outage. However, the voting process was not suspended, as flashlights and mobile phone lights were used. The video camera continued recording, operating on battery power. By 21:25, the electricity had not been restored, and alternative methods (generators) were being sought; however, the PEB activity was not affected.
9. PS 14/6, Drochia. At 09:00, a voter refused to place both ballots into the ballot box for which he had signed. He deposited only the presidential ballot into the box, openly intending to leave with the referendum ballot. When members of the polling station requested that he deposit the ballot into the box, the voter became aggressive and tore the ballot. During discussions with the PEB president, the observer was informed that the police had been called.
10. PS 01/210, Chișinău, Râșcani. Following the instruction of the PEB president, the nullification of unused ballots began at 20:44. Members were assisted in this process by a representative of the “Our Party.”
11. PS 22/01, Leova. At 21:00, a voter took a ballot and marked it with a pen, subsequently attempting to cast it into the ballot box. The PEB president insisted that only ballots with the “voted” stamp could be placed in the box. As a result, the voter went into the voting booth, applied the stamp to the damaged ballots, and then deposited them into the ballot box.
12. PS 01/298, Chișinău, Trușeni. During the distribution of ballots by candidate/option, all members participated. The president did not object, and thus the process continued with all ballots in the same manner.

The release is prepared within the framework of the Presidential Election and Constitutional Referendum Observation Mission of October 20, 2024, conducted by the Promo-LEX Association, with financial support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the European Union, the German Marshall Fund of the United States, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the International Organization of La Francophonie, and the Soros Foundation Moldova. The observation mission is carried out under the aegis of the Civic Coalition for Free and Fair Elections.

The opinions expressed in the public statements of the Promo-LEX Observation Mission belong to the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the funders or partners. The content of this document may be subject to editorial revisions.

For further information, please contact:

Dumitrița Ciuvaga
Comunication Officer
Promo-LEX Association
Tel: +373 68 800 827