Latvian President instructed an opposition member to form a government
Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs instructed opposition representative Andris Kulbergs to try and form a new government.
Andris Kulbergs. Photo: facebook.com/andris.kulbergs
Andris Kulbergs must now hold negotiations with parties and propose a government composition, which then still needs to be approved by the country's parliament. The President of Latvia believes that the quick formation of a new government is better than a situation where the current cabinet would continue to work in an acting capacity until new elections.
It is specifically emphasized that the process must be carried out within a short timeframe, as there is not much time left until the parliamentary elections. Kulbergs must submit a report on the progress of negotiations, the possible composition of the coalition, and the main directions of the government's work by May 25.
The "United List" party, which he represents, is currently the largest opposition force in parliament, which influenced the president's decision.
Kulbergs himself entered politics relatively recently — in 2022, before that he was known as a businessman and an expert in the automotive sector. In parliament, he actively participates in discussions and investigated problems related to large infrastructure projects.
The previous government, led by Evika Siliņa, resigned after the coalition broke down. This happened amidst political disputes, including around the situation with the resignation of the Minister of Defense, which ultimately led to a government crisis.
The new government is expected to work until the next parliamentary elections, which are scheduled for autumn 2026.