Moldovan Parliament Sets Presidential Election For March 16

Moldova's acting president, Marian Lupu

The Moldovan parliament has set a presidential election for March 16.

The country has had acting presidents for the past 900 days, as parliament has failed to agree on a candidate amid prolonged disagreements between political factions.

Members of the ruling pro-European coalition and the Socialists agreed to hold the presidential vote next week.

The decision is opposed by the Communist Party, which continues to demand the dissolution of parliament and wants new elections.

It is unclear whether any presidential candidate will be able to secure the 61 votes needed in the 101-member legislature to win.

Moldova has held three parliamentary elections in the past three years.

The holder of the Moldovan presidency is seen as potentially wielding significant influence over the country's domestic and foreign affairs.

With ITAR-TASS, Interfax, Moldovan Service