FILE PHOTO: Cars drive past an election banner of Moldova's incumbent President and presidential candidate Maia Sandu in Chisinau, Moldova October 30, 2024. REUTERS/Vladislav Culiomza/File Photo
CHISINAU (Reuters) -Moldova's pro-Western incumbent Maia Sandu claimed victory at Sunday's closely-fought presidential election, defeating Alexandr Stoianoglo, her rival backed by the traditionally pro-Russian Socialist Party.
With 98% of the ballots counted, Sandu led Stoianoglo with 54.35%, the Central Election Commission said at the end of an election and campaign that were marred by persistent allegations of interference denied by Russia.
