President Maia Sandu of Moldova announced on Saturday the nomination of businessman Vasile Tofan as the nation’s next prime minister. Tofan is set to succeed Alexandru Munteanu, who stepped down earlier this month citing irreconcilable differences with the ruling majority.
In a social media video addressing the appointment, President Sandu outlined the key priorities for the incoming premier once his candidacy receives parliamentary approval. She emphasized that Tofan’s mandate will focus on advancing Moldova’s path toward European Union integration, strengthening the resilience of state institutions, and revitalizing the country’s economy.
The nominee, who will turn 44 on Sunday, is a managing partner at Horizon Capital, a private equity firm with significant assets in Moldova and Ukraine. Tofan holds a degree in public management from the Netherlands and is a graduate of Harvard Business School. Additionally, he has served as the board chair for Purcari, one of Moldova’s most prominent wineries.
Igor Grosu, head of the ruling Action and Solidarity Party (PAS), confirmed on Friday that Tofan was his chosen candidate. Grosu stated that their agendas are aligned, particularly regarding institutional reform, economic growth, and the objective of achieving EU accession in the coming years. Tofan had been previously considered for the role last year before Munteanu’s initial appointment.
The outgoing prime minister, Munteanu, resigned on 3 July after less than eight months in office, noting that he could no longer fulfill his duties in line with his convictions and principles. Like Sandu, Munteanu had a background at the World Bank and was initially tasked with economic growth and EU alignment before internal friction with PAS led to his departure.
The Moldovan businessman now has two weeks to secure parliamentary backing, a prospect he hopes to achieve after submitting his government programme and his ministerial cabinet nominations. This transition occurs as Moldova continues its integration efforts; the country officially became an EU candidate on 23 June 2022, and the European Union launched the first round of accession negotiations with both Moldova and Ukraine last month.
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