Lithuanian speaker sees no need for coalition changes despite diverse opinions

Lithuania’s parliamentary speaker Juozas Olekas has reiterated his support for maintaining the current coalition, arguing that its diverse composition reflects voter choice and that no changes are needed as long as election pledges are being fulfilled, *LRT* reports.

Speaking ahead of a Social Democratic Party council meeting where the coalition’s future will be discussed, Olekas emphasised that the government was formed to implement a shared programme. “As long as we fulfil that programme, the coalition will hold,” he told *ELTA*. “If obstacles arise in meeting our commitments, then we’ll consider what needs to change to deliver on our promises.”

The speaker acknowledged that the coalition—comprising social democrats, agrarians, greens, and Christian family representatives—was deliberately broad. “Lithuanian voters chose a diverse coalition, so differing opinions are natural,” he said.

Party leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius is expected to present three potential scenarios for the coalition’s future: maintaining the status quo, forming a minority government, or partnering with the opposition Democratic Union “For Lithuania.” Olekas urged colleagues to back the current arrangement but conceded that the final decision would rest with the majority vote.

Addressing speculation that coalition changes could cost him the speaker’s post, Olekas dismissed concerns about holding office. “What matters is serving people honestly,” he said, noting his shift from a surgical career to politics to help build a democratic Lithuania. “I’ve worked in government and opposition—my commitment hasn’t wavered.”

On recent amendments to the public broadcaster *LRT*’s law—passed without opposition support—Olekas called the result a “classic compromise,” where no side claimed outright victory. While critics argue key reforms were dropped, he insisted the changes would improve efficiency, citing past audits that exposed wasteful spending. The revised law also expands the broadcaster’s oversight council.