Former Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu may refuse to continue serving as acting prime minister following his resignation, according to a report by NewsMaker. If confirmed, Economy Minister Eugeniu Osmochescu could assume the role on an interim basis until a new head of government is appointed.
Munteanu announced his resignation on July 3. Following the announcement, President Maia Sandu said he would remain acting prime minister until a successor is appointed.
Under Moldova’s legal procedures, if a resigning prime minister declines to perform the interim duties, one of the cabinet members may be designated to take over those responsibilities.
Osmochescu did not respond to requests from Realitatea to confirm or deny the report. The Government’s press service said it would comment later. The Presidential Administration and the ruling Party of Action and Solidarity had not issued a response by the time of publication.
Several names continue to circulate publicly as possible candidates for the post of prime minister.
Education Minister Dan Perciun has said there have been no discussions with him about a possible nomination.
Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu has hinted that a decision will be announced but has neither confirmed nor denied reports linking him to the position.
Another name mentioned is PAS lawmaker Andrian Băluțel, who told Realitatea that the sources reporting on his possible nomination were “toxic.”
Businessman Vasile Tofan has also been mentioned as a potential candidate. Shortly after Munteanu’s resignation, Tofan published on social media a list of reforms he believes are necessary for Moldova.