Violence against Democracy
With regard to the violent riots following the victory of the Communist party in the parliamentary elections in Moldova on 5 April 2009, Graziella Mascia, Vice-President of the European Left, expressing her solidarity to President Vladimir Voronin declares:
We are very concerned about the outburst of violence contesting the results of fair and transparent elections in Moldova.
The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) itself admits the conformity of this election to international standards. Being of course understood the legitimacy and everyone's right to manifest his/her opinion freely, there is though no reason for such violence and destruction inside the parliament building.
The ongoing attacks go against the principle of democracy and must find an end. We support all steps favouring a peaceful solution, and welcome the cautious approach of the Moldovan government, as well as the distance of those in the opposition who condemn the violence. The defeated parties should accept the democratic will of the Moldovan population and find constructive ways of cooperation for a positive development in the country.

