Moldovan PM delays agriculture minister pick after Musteața exit
Prime Minister Vasile Tofan confirmed that the government will take its time before appointing a new Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry following the resignation of Radu Musteața. Tofan stressed that agriculture remains one of the country's most challenging portfolios, requiring extensive consultations and thorough candidate vetting.
Speaking during a July 29 broadcast on TV8, Tofan acknowledged his oversight in recommending Musteața, who stepped down just two days after the Cabinet was sworn in. The resignation followed revelations that Musteața had falsely denied prior membership in the former Democratic Party.
A critical economic portfolio
The Prime Minister emphasized that selecting the right manager is vital for a sector receiving up to €204 million (approx. 4 billion MDL) in annual state investments funded by taxpayers across other economic sectors.
Tofan noted that he originally selected Musteața due to his strong managerial track record at the National Food Safety Agency (ANSA). Under Musteața’s leadership, the agency helped open European Union markets for Moldovan poultry and eggs while modernizing national laboratory and certification systems.
Lessons from a political setback
Musteața resigned on July 24 after evidence surfaced contradicting his initial claims regarding his past party affiliation. He subsequently issued a public apology for misleading the public.
While Tofan previously described the incident as a "foolish mistake" during a July 28 press conference, he expressed hope that Musteața would remain in public service in a non-political capacity due to his technical expertise. The Prime Minister reiterated that the administration prefers a rigorous selection process over a hurried appointment.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
