Moldovans defy police repression, protest oligarchy on 25th anniversary of independence
August 27 marks the 25th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Moldova. On this occasion, in the midst of an economic, financial and political crisis, the regime decided to organize a grand celebration with a military parade and a number of costly activities. However, the solemn parade organized by the authorities in the Grand National Assembly Square took place almost without people, but was guarded by thousands of police officers who blocked access to the area. Hundreds of citizens came to express their protest against the actions of the authorities in the campaign #NuMăTem. The police did not allow them to go to the area of the square, forming a human shield on the perimeter in front of the government, and used tear gas against the protesters, who chanted: "[Oligarch Vlad] Plahotniuc, do not forget your home is prison,” "Down with the mafia" and "Down with the dictatorship!”