Romanian Media Called Sandu’s Decision to Avoid the Debate a ‘Defiant Gesture’

President Maia Sandu did not attend the televised debates, to which Alexandr Stoianoglo and Renato Usatii were invited in addition to her. Alexandr Stoianglo also did not stay for the debate after learning that the incumbent would not participate. The situation was reported by Romanian media, which called Maia Sandu’s decision “defiant”, ştiri.md reported. Earlier, Maia Sandu refused to confirm in advance whether she would participate in the debates. During the TV programme, the head of state said that debates are a useful element of democracy when participants want to discuss specific topics, but when “some candidates turn debates into a mediocre show, they do not help citizens to form their opinions”.