Lithuanian prime minister calls for less interference in coalition discussions

Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė has urged political figures to refrain from interfering in ongoing discussions about potential changes within the ruling coalition, stating that decisions should be made internally by the Social Democrats, LRT reports.

Speaking to Žinių Radijas on Thursday, Ruginienė emphasised that public speculation and excessive debate were counterproductive. “I believe it would be better if everyone interfered less in this process and allowed us to make our own decisions,” she said. “This should not be a matter of public discussion but rather internal decisions and conversations.”

She criticised attempts to turn the process into a “show,” noting that when discussions overshadow real work, the situation becomes “somewhat strange.”

Ruginienė also dismissed suggestions that she was clinging to her position, stating she would step down if necessary following the upcoming election of the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP) leader. “I am not someone who is attached to a particular chair and for whom position is more important than getting things done,” she said. “I have no doubt that the party will elect the best leader, and that will be Mindaugas Sinkevičius. We work well together in a strong tandem.”

Political sources indicate that the Social Democrats have held preliminary talks with the Seimas Democratic faction Vardan Lietuvos (For Lithuania). Sinkevičius confirmed that minimal discussions have taken place.

Some Social Democrats have publicly criticised the rhetoric and voting record of Nemuno Aušra leader Remigijus Žemaitaitis on key state matters. Žemaitaitis has stated he does not fear leaving the coalition but will remain as long as programme commitments are being implemented.

The current coalition, led by Ruginienė, was formed last summer after former Prime Minister Gintautas Paluckas resigned amid journalistic investigations into his business ties.