Moldovan MP formerly detained in Transnistrian jail passes away: life of patriotism, political detention, parliamentary activity

The family and close people inform about the passing of Ilie Ilascu, whom they describe as "a man of courage, integrity, and love for his country. Husband, father, grandfather and friend, Ilie Ilascu remains an example of patriotism and dignity for generations."

For those who knew him, Ilie Ilascu remains a bright memory. "He loved sincerely, fought with dignity and was a true patriot. His legacy remains in our hearts as a rare lesson of courage and dignity," conveyed the grieving family.

The final tribute can be paid at the chapel of Saint Sophia Church, 216 Floreasca Road, Bucharest, starting November 18, at 14:00, until November 20, 2025.

"We thank you for every prayer, kind thought and moment of support. His light remains alive through those he loved and all who will not forget him. May God rest his soul," writes the family.

Ilie Ilascu was born on July 30, 1952, in the village of Taxobeni, Falesti district, in the former Moldavian Soviet Republic. He graduated from the Faculty of Economics at the Agricultural University and was one of the founders of the National Liberation Movement in Bessarabia (1988–1992). Ilascu led the Popular Front of Moldova – Tiraspol Branch (1989–1992) and actively participated in the Transnistrian War, commanding special troops of Moldova’s National Security Ministry.

On June 2, 1992, he and other members of the Ilascu Group were arrested by separatist forces backed by the Russian GRU (Main Intelligence Directorate) and held as political prisoners until 2001. In 1993, Ilascu was sentenced to death by an unconstitutional court, and after international community’s intervention, he was released on May 5, 2001, and handed over to the authorities in Moldova and Romania.

Ilie Ilascu’s courage was recognized internationally. In 2004, the European Court of Human Rights ruled that the Russian Federation and the Republic of Moldova bear responsibility for torture and illegal deprivation of liberty in his case.

He was decorated with the National Order Star of Romania – Knight (2001, decoration offered by Romanian President Ion Iliescu), Order of the Republic (2010, Republic of Moldova), and named Honorary Citizen of the municipalities of Bucharest and Chisinau, Sighisoara and 37 other settlements of Romania.

Ilie Ilascu was a lawmaker of Moldova’s parliament in two legislative periods (1994–1998 and 1998–2000) and a senator in the Parliament of Romania (2000–2008), representing the Greater Romania Party (PRM). Ilascu held important positions in committees on public health, human rights, defense and public order and participated in Romania's delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.

During his political activity, Ilie Ilascu was known for legislative initiatives in human rights, security reforms and international cooperation, being recognized as a symbol of the fight for freedom and national unity.

For the communities of Moldova and Romania, Ilie Ilascu remains a living example of patriotism, courage and dignity. The family, friends and those who knew him bid farewell, keeping alive the memory of a man who knew how to love, fight and inspire.

"For us, Ilie Ilascu was and remains a pillar of dignity, courage and love. His example will always accompany us," conveyed the family.