Moldova Votes 50.3% 'Yes' on EU Membership in Tight Referendum

Oct 21, 2024, 04:51 AM

Preliminary results from Moldova's referendum on European Union membership indicate a razor-thin majority supporting the constitutional amendment to pursue EU accession. With 99.2% of votes counted, 50.3% have voted 'Yes', while 49.7% voted 'No', a difference of just 79 votes. Initial counts showed the 'No' vote leading with 57%, but as more ballots were tallied, particularly from the diaspora, the 'Yes' vote gained ground. Voter turnout reached 49.8% by 21:00 EEST, surpassing the 33% threshold required to validate the referendum. President Maia Sandu has expressed concerns about foreign meddling and attempts by criminal groups to influence the vote. The final results are expected once all remaining votes, especially those from abroad, are counted.