President Maia Sandu stated that Telegram is one of the main platforms used by networks preparing destabilizing actions in the Republic of Moldova, including for mobilizing protests and organizing voter corruption schemes. The head of state mentioned that the authorities in Chisinau have not received any response to the official requests addressed to the Telegram administration. At the same time, the president avoided answering whether these platforms will be closed or subjected to regulations, reports IPN.
“On Telegram, in closed groups, the mobilization for protests is organized and information about rewards offered for participation is distributed. The same place is where vote-buying schemes are coordinated. This happened last year, and it continues this year. What’s worse is that on Telegram, there is an attempt to normalize these practices, as if they were something acceptable”, Maia Sandu declared to the press, after the Supreme Security Council meeting.
The President added that state institutions have repeatedly reported cases of disinformation, incitement, and corruption of voters, however, the Telegram platform has not provided any official response.
According to Maia Sandu, other social networks are also used for similar purposes. On TikTok, authorities notice the creation of thousands of accounts that amplify anti-EU and anti-government messages. Although there is some communication with this platform, it remains to be seen whether there will also be concrete collaboration regarding the removal of accounts that violate the law.
Furthermore, on Facebook and Instagram, messages of misinformation, emotional manipulation, and content meant to induce fear and anxiety among the population continue to be promoted, says Maia Sandu. According to her, the authorities in Chisinau are in dialogue with the representatives of these platforms.
“We hope that this communication will move to the next stage – collaboration – in the case of these accounts that are illegal or harm national security through the messages they promote”, the president further states.
