Igor Dodon, the leader of the Socialists, claims that the president’s appointment of special envoys violates the Constitution and could justify launching impeachment proceedings against Maia Sandu.
“Maia Sandu clearly acts unconstitutionally by appointing so-called ‘special envoys’. This position does not exist in the Constitution, which means the president operates outside the law. Such actions allow Parliament to initiate impeachment. This requires 34 votes. We have 17, and if the other factions show political will, we are ready to start the process of dismissing Maia Sandu,” Dodon said.
The Presidential Administration responded to Realitatea.md by stating that it operates strictly within the legal framework.
“The Presidency of the Republic of Moldova conducts all activities in full compliance with the Regulation of the Office of the President of the Republic of Moldova, a public document available on the institution’s website. Igor Dodon’s statements have no basis and are irresponsible. The regulation clearly includes the position of special envoy, and many states, including France and the United States, use similar roles. This function is also unpaid,” the Presidency stated.
The institution also emphasized that political actors should make public statements responsibly.
On 10 December, President Maia Sandu signed the decree appointing former Prime Minister Dorin Recean as Special Envoy for Development and Resilience. On 31 October, she appointed former Deputy Prime Minister Nicu Popescu as Special Envoy for European Affairs and Strategic Partnerships.