The governor of Moldova’s region of Gagauzia, Evgenia Gutul, is facing a criminal case that has been sent to court, prosecutors announced on Wednesday. Gutul, who won election last year to head the autonomous region, is accused of channelling funds from Russia to finance the now-banned pro-Russian “Shor” party set up by exiled businessman Ilan Shor.
Prosecutors allege that Gutul was actively involved in introducing unaccounted financial means into Moldova from an organised criminal group in Russia. Gutul, known for her pro-Russian views and calls for closer ties with Moscow, has denied the accusations.
If found guilty, Gutul could face 2-7 years in jail and be banned from holding government positions. The case comes at a time when Moldova, led by pro-European President Maia Sandu, is seeking to join the European Union and distance itself from Moscow’s influence.
The small former Soviet republic has a history of political oscillation between pro-Western and pro-Russian parties, with Russian troops currently occupying the pro-Russian separatist region of Transdnistria. Gagauzia, another semi-autonomous region, is home to the Gagauz ethnic minority.
Gutul’s alleged involvement in paying people to attend anti-government protests and bribing voters during local elections has further complicated the political landscape in Moldova. The case highlights the ongoing struggle between pro-European and pro-Russian forces in the country.