Moldova accelerates fight against corruption and for justice reform: statements by Moldovan PM

Moldova continues its path of strengthening the rule of law through deep reforms in justice and the fight against corruption, emphasizing the importance of macroeconomic stability and an attractive investment climate. Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu today evening made statements to this effect at a talk show on the public television channel.

According to the PM, the justice reform, and especially the process of vetting of magistrates, represents the core of the necessary changes, in order to ensure transparency and fairness in the judicial system.

"The vetting should be completed by the end of 2026. It is an extensive process - you can't clean everything all at once, but each stage brings the system closer to the exemplary state which we want," Munteanu said.

The prime minister emphasized that, with post-COVID economic stabilization and ensuring energy security, Moldova had created a favorable environment for investments.

"Now we can move forward. Moldova is open for business, we have opportunities, and talented young people who want to stay at home, if we provide the right conditions," the official pointed out.

Tackling Corruption and Restructuring Specialized Prosecutor's Offices

As for the future of the Anticorruption Prosecutor's Office and the Prosecutor's Office for Combating Organized Crime, the prime minister said that the government was currently analyzing the optimal solution for combating major corruption: either restructuring the two prosecutor's offices or creating a new specialized prosecutor's office.

"We don't want to take a wrong step. In the coming months, we will decide on the model that ensures equitable justice for all citizens," declared Munteanu.

At the same time, the prime minister noted that uncertainties around these structures had not influenced the International Monetary Fund's decisions regarding the latest funding installment.

"Moldova has enough money. The IMF steps in during crisis situations or to certify the macroeconomic status. In our case, the IMF report confirmed that public debt is manageable and the budget deficit is covered through capital investments," said Alexandru Munteanu.

The Connection Between Justice Reform and the Investment Environment

The PM drew attention to the direct link between a transparent judicial system and attracting investments.

"I invested in Moldova between 1997 and 201,1 but noticed that the captured state hindered normal business operations. Now, with changes made over the past four years, with economic stabilization and creating a fair legislative framework, we can attract investors and develop the economy," the prime minister also said.

The PM specified that the international experience showed that the speed of economic development depends on institutional reforms: "We need to accelerate the process of economic growth, so that investments and reforms are directly reflected in the citizens' wellbeing."

Message for Citizens and Investors

Alexandru Munteanu emphasized that the government was committed to transforming Moldova into a country with fair justice and a solid economy, ready to face regional challenges, including the proximity of armed conflicts.

"We explain to investors that it is safe here; we have real opportunities and huge potential for development," concluded the prime minister.