Lithuanian prime minister to announce government reshuffle next week

The government led by Prime Minister Ingrida Ruginienė is expected to announce its resignation next Tuesday, according to unofficial reports cited by LRT.

Social Security and Labour Minister Jūratė Zailskienė, who is reportedly being replaced, stated she has no hard feelings about the decision. Ruginienė, who previously held the ministerial post, is expected to return to the role. Zailskienė may be offered the position of Deputy Speaker of the Seimas.

Ruginienė has not commented on potential government changes. Earlier this month, she began a cabinet meeting with optimism, noting that officials were “finally starting to smile” and address important issues. However, opposition members now observe a shift in her demeanour. Mindaugas Lingė of the Homeland Union-Lithuanian Christian Democrats (TS-LKD) remarked, “The smile we often saw is gone.”

Mindaugas Sinkevičius, a candidate for prime minister, stated that Kęstutis Budrys may not necessarily be replaced as foreign minister, though other presidential advisors are under consideration. Finance Minister Kristupas Vaitiekūnas, often seen as the prime minister’s right hand, said he had not discussed the position. Budrys himself noted that discussions about his role would take place in due course.

Sinkevičius emphasised the importance of implementing the government’s programme, regardless of who holds the ministerial posts. He mentioned potential candidates, including presidential advisor Deividas Matulionis, as well as current Vice Minister Asta Skaisgirytė and Budrys himself.