Peter Graff

CHISINAU (Reuters – A leading figure in Moldova’s opposition claimed on Friday that he will violate a ban on proRussian war symbols and wear an orange-colored ribbon on a march scheduled for May 9. This is a direct challenge against the pro-Western government.

The Moldovan Parliament passed last month a law that prohibited symbols of Russia’s war in neighboring Ukraine. It included the St. George’s orange and black ribbons, which are popular among Kremlin supporters.

Although they are widely considered pro-Russian in Moldova, the opposition Socialists call the ban a violation on free speech rights and claim that the ribbon was not appropriate for some Soviet-era medals.

The history of unrest in Moldova’s streets is long. Domestic attention has been drawn to plans for protests on May 9th, which Russia and former Soviet countries consider victory day in World War Two.

Vlad Batrincea (as deputy speaker in parliament) is the highest-ranking opposition lawmaker and told Reuters his party had advised its members that they could make a personal choice about wearing the ribbon on the march.

“Personally I will wear that ribbon as I did in previous years. I also plan to do so in future years.” He said that this ribbon does not symbolize aggression to Ukraine, a neighboring country.

“The police should issue the fine. The police should issue a fine. I will contest this at the court. This is my constitutional right. I trust justice will ensure my freedom of expression and right to gather. These are constitutional rights.

“MAY 9 IS ALL ABOUT PEACE”

Moldova’s pro-Western president Maia Sandu took control at the close of 2020 following defeating the incumbent Socialist. She said it was difficult to incorporate in one symbol “the memory of those who died for peace” and “the current inhumane conflict in Ukraine.” Russian troops also ban the use of “Z” or “V” symbols.

Sandu’s government strongly supports Ukraine in the fight against Russian invading forces. It has also expressed concern about Moscow having plans on Transdniestria, a pro-Russian area that split from Moldova over three decades ago.

Batrincea indicated that he did not expect any unrest to Monday’s protest, unless the counter-protesters attempted to create clashes.

He said, “May 9th is all about peace.” We hope that the police won’t allow any clashes. Our event should be as civilised and peaceful this year than it was in previous years.

The Socialist-Communist lawmakers who had appealed against the ban on ribbons were rejected by Moldova’s Constitution Court. Individuals who use banned symbols of war are subject to fines up to $50, and organisations can face higher penalties.

According to Moldovan police, they are not going to attempt to stop any peaceful demonstrations of opposition. Instead, they plan to film the march and issue fines to those who break the ban on symbols.

According to InfoTag news agency: “The police will not respond to provocations, but they are ready to strictly document violations …,” Viorel Chernautanu,” head of the general inspectionate of police told a briefing.