CHISINAU, Moldova — Moldova’s parliament has decided to vote next week to replace former Communist President Vladimir Voronin, but there is little sign of ending a deadlock between Communists and the new Western-leaning government.

The parliament decided to hold the vote next Tuesday after last week scrapping a law that said more than one candidate must run for president.

The new government’s choice is Marian Lupu, but the Communists have insisted that they will not vote for him. Eight votes are needed from the Communists for the vote to succeed. Failure to finally approve a new president could force a parliamentary election, after one in April and another in July.

(Reuters)