Moldova farmers nominate Slusari for Agriculture Minister
The Association "Farmers' Force" has formally nominated Alexandr Slusari to lead the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry. The proposal was submitted on July 24 to Prime Minister Vasile Tofan following a sudden vacancy in the cabinet.
Slusari stated he has not yet held direct talks with the Prime Minister but felt honored by the nomination. While expressing skepticism about his appointment due to policy differences, he emphasized his willingness to take responsibility.
Paradigm shift toward smallholders
If appointed, Slusari plans to overhaul the country's agricultural model. He advocates shifting focus away from large conglomerates to position small and medium-sized farms as the primary driver of the sector.
Slusari emphasized adopting European-style direct per-hectare payments and building local processing facilities. This strategy aims to curb the export of unprocessed raw materials and protect local producers within retail chains.
Government response and background
Government spokesperson Dumitru Ciorici confirmed that the Prime Minister will review all proposals from industry associations before making a final decision on the ministerial appointment.
The vacancy arose after former Agriculture Minister Radu Musteața resigned on July 24, just two days after the Tofan cabinet was sworn in. Musteața stepped down to protect public trust following controversies surrounding his past political involvement.
Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu expressed regret over Musteața's departure, commending his prior performance at the National Food Safety Agency. Meanwhile, agricultural groups are urging a swift appointment to maintain operational continuity.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
