Ion ȘTEFANOVICI, President of CAPDR: “I believe that mutual respect, loyalty, and recognition of the legitimacy of elected representatives are principles that must be upheld, even when differences in political orientation arise”
Mesaje publice
ION CEBAN. JUSTICE MUST NOT DEPEND ON POLITICAL CIRCUMSTANCES!
I publicly acknowledge my close relationship and dialogue with Mr. Ion Ceban, Mayor General of the Municipality of Chișinău.
I believe that mutual respect, loyalty, and recognition of the legitimacy of elected representatives are principles that must be upheld, including when differences in political orientation arise.
The entry ban imposed on Mr. Ion Ceban in Romania during Ilie Bolojan’s government had consequences extending beyond the administrative sphere. It affected the international cooperation opportunities of an elected mayor and political leader who may also aspire to become President of the Republic of Moldova.
I Politically Challenge This Measure and the Way It Was Publicly Justified
Ilie Bolojan and Oana Țoiu held government responsibilities when the ban was imposed. Nicușor Dan publicly supported the rationale behind it. As for Maia Sandu, who has denied involvement in the decision, I consider it legitimate to clarify all the political circumstances surrounding the measure.
Invoking national security and alleged links to the Russian Federation must be subject to responsible scrutiny. The protection of classified information must not preclude public debate on the proportionality of a restriction and its political consequences.
I, along with many others, believe there are serious grounds for challenging the nature and effects of this ban.
As of 20 October 2026, Romania Has a New Government. This Is an Opportunity to Responsibly Reassess Previous Decisions
Where errors are identified, they must be corrected. Where abuses are proven, justice must be restored, and those affected must have their rights reinstated.
In Mr. Ion Ceban’s case, I support examining the possibility of lifting the ban through the competent legal procedures.
Relations between Romania and the Republic of Moldova are more important than the temporary interests of individual governments. They must remain open to all democratically elected representatives, in full compliance with the law.
Politicians come and go. Institutions, communities, and democratic principles must endure.
