Moldova's Sandu names Osmochescu acting prime minister
Leadership Transition in Moldova's Government
(Corrects spelling of Osmochescu in headline to conform with text)
By Alexander Tanas
Appointment of Acting Prime Minister
CHISINAU, July 7 (Reuters) - President Maia Sandu on Tuesday named Deputy Prime Minister Eugeniu Osmochescu, a former international financial official, as acting prime minister to replace Alexandru Munteanu, who stepped down unexpectedly on Friday.
Reasons for Munteanu's Resignation
Munteanu had said he could no longer do his job in accordance with his convictions.
Background of Eugeniu Osmochescu
Osmochescu, currently also minister of economic development and digitalization, takes office on Wednesday, according to Sandu's decree. Prior to joining the government, he worked at the International Finance Corporation, the World Bank's private sector arm.
Reactions to the Appointment
"I would like to thank him (Osmochescu) for taking on this responsibility and wish him every success in this mission," Munteanu said in a Facebook post.
Next Steps for Moldova's Government
Consultations for Permanent Successor
Sandu told reporters on Friday she would consult parliamentary factions this week to name Munteanu's successor.
Role of the Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS)
Her pro-European Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) holds a majority in the 101-seat parliament.
Recent Political Developments
Munteanu had been appointed after September's parliamentary election, in which PAS resoundingly defeated a Russia-leaning rival to win a fresh mandate.
Interim Government Activities
Osmocheschu will on Wednesday chair a meeting of the government, which is staying on in an interim capacity until parliament appoints a new one.
(Reporting by Alexander Tanas, writing by Anna Pruchnicka; Editing by Kevin Liffey)
