Moldova’s prime minister Alexandru Munteanu resigns amid scandals and reform backlash

A sudden resignation

Munteanu posted on Facebook Friday morning that his term had ended, writing that he could not carry out his mandate in line with his principles and convictions. The 62‑year‑old investment banker had been prime minister since November 2025. His departure automatically dissolved the entire cabinet, leaving Moldova, an EU candidate since 2022, without a sitting government.

Today, my term as Prime Minister comes to an end. The moment I realized that I could no longer carry out my mandate in accordance with my principles and convictions, I chose to step down.

Scandals and fiscal tensions

The resignation came as the government faced multiple crises: a scandal at the state air safety authority MoldATSA involving falsified diplomas and alleged bribery; contested appointments linked to a cousin of President Sandu; and a radical tax reform package raising VAT on medicines from 8% to 20%, on food and on utilities. Health minister Emil Ceban warned the tax changes could destroy the healthcare system. Street protests erupted against the reforms.

Sandu’s response and what comes next

An hour after Munteanu’s post, President Maia Sandu held a press conference. She dismissed speculation that she had blocked anti‑corruption efforts, saying he had had full freedom to govern, but she criticised his lack of engagement and openness.

He had the unrestricted freedom to lead the government as he saw fit. I expected more involvement, more decisions, and a greater willingness to listen to people and explain why reforms are necessary.

Sandu announced consultations with parliamentary groups next week to propose a new prime minister. The pro‑European PAS party holds a majority, so a successor is expected to come from its ranks.