Moldova fires graft-linked official and names ECHR representative
Moldova's newly formed cabinet, led by Prime Minister Vasile Tofan, dismissed two state secretaries during its inaugural meeting on July 22, 2026. The dismissals include an official recently detained in a high-profile corruption probe.
During the same session, ministers appointed a new government agent to represent the Republic of Moldova at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR).
New representation at the European Court
Upon the recommendation of Justice Minister Vladislav Cujuhari, the cabinet approved the appointment of Mihaela Martînov-Guceac as ECHR government agent. Her seven-year term officially begins on August 28, 2026.
Minister Cujuhari expressed confidence in her capability to fulfill the mandate with professionalism, integrity, and strict adherence to international legal standards.
Agriculture ministry official ousted amid corruption probe
At the request of Agriculture Minister Radu Musteață, the cabinet approved the dismissal of Tatiana Nistorică from her role as state secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, effective July 22, 2026.
Law enforcement authorities detained Nistorică on July 2, less than five months after her appointment. The detention followed allegations of corruption and influence peddling.
Investigators report that a business operator allegedly bribed Nistorică to influence officials at the National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) to lift restrictions on poultry and animal feed imports from Ukraine.
Further leadership changes in health and food safety
The cabinet also accepted the formal resignation of Andrei Romancenco, dismissing him from his position as state secretary at the Ministry of Health, effective July 22, 2026.
Additionally, ministers accepted the resignation of Radu Musteață from his former role as Director General of ANSA following his appointment as Minister of Agriculture in the Tofan administration.
Deputy Director General Alexandru Manciu will assume interim duties as head of ANSA starting July 23, 2026, until the government appoints a permanent director general.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
