OSCE notes interference from abroad in Moldova local elections

FILE PHOTO: Moldova's President Maia Sandu addresses the 78th Session of the U.N. General Assembly in New York City, U.S., September 20, 2023. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz/File Photo

CHISINAU (Reuters) - The Organization for Security and Co-Operation In Europe (OSCE) said on Monday local elections in Moldova on Sunday were managed efficiently though interference from abroad and suspension of candidates of the Chance opposition party had a negative impact.

Ahead of the elections, Moldova's President Maia Sandu accused Russia of "buying" voters by funnelling $5 million over two months to "criminal groups" led by fugitive oligarch Ilan Shor, whom authorities see as a proxy for Moscow.