By Alexander Tanas CHISINAU, March 29 (Reuters) - Moldovan opposition parties on Sunday demanded an explanation from the pro-European government for the imposition of a sweeping energy state of an
Moldovan Opposition Questions Energy State of Emergency After Power Line Restored
Opposition Challenges and Government Response to Moldova's Energy Crisis
By Alexander Tanas
Background of the State of Emergency
CHISINAU, March 29 (Reuters) - Moldovan opposition parties on Sunday demanded an explanation from the pro-European government for the imposition of a sweeping energy state of an emergency over a damaged power line which took four days to repair.
The Eastern European country's parliament approved the 60-day state of emergency last Tuesday to simplify decision-making after the government blamed Russian attacks in neighbouring Ukraine for knocking out the Isaccea-Vulcanesti power line.
Restoration of the Isaccea-Vulcanesti Power Line
The line, which carries power from Romania to Moldova and passes through 40 km (25 miles) of Ukrainian territory, was restored on Saturday, Moldova's Energy Ministry said. The line provides up to 70% of the country's electricity needs.
Opposition Leaders' Criticism
Statements from Igor Dodon
"As we assumed, the state of emergency was nothing more than a show and we were right not to support it," Igor Dodon, leader of the pro-Russia Socialist Party, wrote on Telegram.
Dodon demanded the immediate repeal of the state of emergency and an explanation from the pro-European Moldovan government of how it had used the additional powers provided by the measure.
Comments from Ion Ceban
Ion Ceban, the mayor of the capital Chisinau, also backed a repeal of the state of emergency and called for measures to help consumers in the former Soviet republic, one of Europe's poorest countries. Ceban, who leads an opposition party, is frequently at odds with the government.
Government's Position and International Context
Prime Minister's Appeal and Parliamentary Support
Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu had urged parliament to back the measure, which allows the government to implement decisions without seeking the approval of the chamber, where the Party of Action and Solidarity has a majority.
Repair Efforts and Accusations Against Russia
Munteanu said Ukrainian specialists had pledged to repair the line within five to seven days. Igor Grosu, the speaker of the parliament, described the Russian strikes as a war crime.
President Maia Sandu's Stance
President Maia Sandu, who has pledged to bring Moldova into the European Union by 2030, has opposed Russia's four-year war against Ukraine. She also accuses Moscow of trying to unseat her government. Moscow says Sandu is fomenting hostility towards Russia and its people.
(Reporting by Alexander Tanas; Writing by Ronald Popeski and Paul Simao)
