Former deputy mayor of Chisinau challenges her dismissal, alleges “abuse of power”

The former deputy mayor of the Chisinau municipality, Irina Gutnic, has said that she would challenge in court the decision to dismiss her from office, which she describes as illegal and an “abuse of power.” She claims that the order signed by the general mayor, Ion Ceban, was issued in violation of legal provisions.

The official specified that she had found out about the dismissal from the press.

“The mayor general chose to sign an illegal order. We are talking about an administrative act, an abuse of power and a defiance of the law,” Irina Gutnic said at a news conference today.

The former deputy mayor says she will challenge the decision in court, noting that her action is not motivated by a wish to return to office.

“I will challenge this decision in court. Not for the position, but because the law must be observed,” she added.

Gutnic also speaks about a tense climate in the municipal administration, which she describes as being based on “control and fear.”

She claims that the real reason for her dismissal is linked to her refusal to accept certain administrative practices.

The former deputy mayor says she will defend her position in court and notes that she was also dismissed from the company Apa-Canal Chisinau.

The capital’s mayor, Ion Ceban, wrote on his page that he would not respond “to a lady upset that she no longer has a position” and said that he had personally informed her about the dismissal.

The municipality issued a press release specifying that the decision to terminate Irina Gutnic’s employment at Apa-Canal Chisinau company had been taken on  May 12, during the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of the enterprise. Presently, the position of acting director of Apa-Canal Chisinau is held by Diana Tacu.

Irina Gutnic was removed from the position of deputy mayor of the capital on May 11. She had held this post since 2022. Prior to that, Irina Gutnic was the general director of JSC Apa-Canal Chisinau.