President Maia Sandu reaffirmed her commitment to justice reform, calling for Moldova’s judicial cleansing to restore public trust and ensure a functional system. Speaking on TV8, Sandu revealed that around 140 judges have exited the system over the past four years, most due to integrity concerns.
“The system means people,” Sandu said.
“About 140 judges have left, and while not all departures stemmed from integrity issues, most did. This cleansing process must continue and be completed.”
Vetting Commission Progress Frustrates Sandu
Sandu criticized the slow pace of the Vetting Commission, which evaluates the integrity and professionalism of judges. Its delays have postponed the start of prosecutor evaluations.
“I’m not satisfied with the commission’s performance. I expected it to finish vetting judges and move to prosecutors,” she noted. “I understand the frustration of those waiting over a year.”
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Although the president cannot intervene directly, Sandu pledged continued political and institutional backing, calling justice reform vital to Moldova’s democratic future.
Training New Professionals
Sandu emphasized the need to train new professionals through the National Institute of Justice, noting that deep reform takes time. While some competent and honest judges already serve, lasting change depends on the next generation.
“We must complete the cleansing and bring in new people. It will take time for them to learn, but only then will the system work efficiently,” she said. “There are already good examples, but real change hinges on finishing this process, especially the parliamentary elections ahead.”
Public Trust Slowly Rebuilding
According to a March 2025 UNDP study conducted with the Ministry of Justice and supported by Germany and Sweden, 51.7% of Moldovans report moderate to high trust in the justice system. Notaries earned the highest trust (38%), followed by local authorities (32.1%) and bailiffs (19.1%). The survey included 3,066 respondents.
Sandu concluded by stressing the importance of professionalism across the system and warned that reform will require years of sustained effort.