Social Democrats divided over coalition future as leader prepares to present exit scenarios

The governing Social Democratic Party of Lithuania (LSDP) is deeply split over whether to continue its coalition with the “Nemuno Aušra” (Dawn by the Nemunas) and “Valstiečiai” (Peasant) parties, with some members arguing that the time for change has already passed, LRT.lt reports.

Party leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius is expected to present three possible scenarios for the coalition’s future at a Saturday meeting of the party’s council, though he has not disclosed details. However, scepticism remains high among rank-and-file members, including Alytus Mayor Nerijus Cesiulis, who stated bluntly: “I think the time for change has already passed.”

Behind-the-scenes discussions suggest the LSDP leadership is pushing for a break with “Nemuno Aušra,” but faces resistance from influential party figures. Unofficial talks have reportedly begun on potential cabinet post allocations with new partners, though no formal decisions have been made.

The current coalition was formed after the 2024 parliamentary elections, initially excluding the Democratic Union “For Lithuania” despite earlier collaboration. That party’s potential return to the fold has been speculated for months, particularly after its former leader, Saulius Skvernelis, resigned amid legal troubles.

Opinions within the LSDP remain sharply divided. Speaker of the Seimas Juozas Olekas and deputy chair Indrė Kižienė have publicly backed maintaining the status quo, arguing that the coalition should continue unchanged. Kižienė claimed her local Ukmergė branch unanimously supported the current arrangement in a recent vote.

Deputy chair Robertas Duchnevičius, however, suggested the party’s direction would hinge on Sinkevičius’ leadership. “The chairman will take the lead and have his say,” he told ELTA, adding that the leader’s proposed strategies would heavily influence the outcome.

Sinkevičius has previously declined to pre-empt the council’s decision, stating only that he would present “three possible scenarios” for discussion. The party’s internal divisions reflect broader uncertainty over whether the coalition—plagued by tensions since its formation—can survive in its current form.