CHISINAU, Moldova (AP) — Preliminary results of the race for Moldova's capital show pro-Russian Communists ahead of the incumbent pro-European mayor.
Authorities say Monday that with 52 percent of the votes counted Monday, Communist candidate Igor Dodon is leading with 51.3 percent of the votes, and current mayor Dorin Chirtoaca is second with 44.3 percent.
A run-off will occur if no candidate wins more than 50 percent.
Final results are expected later Monday.
Sunday’s ballot was seen as a test for the pro-European alliance that came to power in November.
Other preliminary results, however, show the alliance winning in 24 out of 32 districts in the nation of 4.1 million.
The three-party governing coalition has pledged to bring Moldova closer to the European Union.
