Prime Minister: 7 April 2009 changed country’s direction and left us with lesson we must never forget: freedom does not come by itself, it is won

7 April 2009 changed the country’s direction and left us with a lesson we must never forget: freedom does not come by itself, it is won. Today, our duty is to carry that courage forward – through fair institutions, respect for the law, and a firm path within the European family. Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu conveyed the message today on the 17th anniversary of the 7 April 2009 protests.

The official stressed that 7 April is not just a date on the calendar – it is a symbol of freedom, courage and dignity.


“On that day, a generation found the strength to take to the streets not for slogans, but for a fundamental right: the FREEDOM to decide its own future! Back then, thousands of people stated, with rare clarity, that Moldova belongs to its citizens, that the state must serve them, and that rights and freedoms are not given, they are earned and protected. 7 April 2009 changed this country’s direction and left us with a lesson we must never forget: freedom does not come by itself, it is won. Today, our duty is to carry that courage forward – through fair institutions, respect for the law, and a firm path within the European family,” said Munteanu.


The Prime Minister noted that the Republic of Moldova is and will remain its citizens’ country, and the state must stand on the people’s side.


“We must never allow a return to fear, abuse or authoritarianism. Because the Republic of Moldova is and will remain a state of its citizens. The courage shown back then obliges us never to weaken in defending freedom! And the state, through all its institutions, must remain on the people’s side and work only in their interest!” Alexandru Munteanu emphasized.


The protests of 7 April 2009 broke out after the Central Electoral Commission announced the victory of the Communist Party in the parliamentary elections. Young people, mobilized on social networks, took to the streets, accusing electoral fraud. Initially peaceful, the protest quickly escalated into violence. The buildings of the Presidency and Parliament were ransacked, looted and set on fire.