Ruginienė’s government officially resigns

The government led by Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė officially resigned on Tuesday, as reported by LRT.

The Cabinet held its final meeting in the morning, where it adopted a resolution to step down. Ruginienė expressed gratitude to her team, stating: “I sincerely thank you all.” She confirmed that the government would return its mandate to the President of the Republic.

Addressing the media after the meeting, Ruginienė reflected on her tenure, noting that she had fulfilled her promise to never shy away from difficult decisions. She acknowledged public criticism but emphasized that the government had delivered on its commitments, particularly in defense funding, air defense, and combating smuggling and corruption.

“In the role of prime minister, you must daily choose between what is popular and what is necessary, between what is convenient for yourself and what is right and safe for society. We chose to act,” she said.

Ruginienė also highlighted the importance of courage, empathy, and the ability to listen—qualities she said helped her navigate complex decisions. She rejected the idea that a leader must conform to a predetermined stereotype, adding that she never believed leadership should be shaped by someone else’s template.

After stepping down, Ruginienė is expected to return to her previous role as Minister of Social Security and Labour, stating: “I return to where my heart is—working on issues related to people’s lives, their concerns, moods, and opportunities.”

The resignation follows the nomination of Mindaugas Sinkevičius, leader of the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP), as the new prime ministerial candidate by the newly formed coalition. The current government will continue in a caretaker capacity until a new Cabinet is formed and sworn in.

A temporary government will ensure daily operations from June 24 until the new administration takes office. Ruginienė will formally submit her resignation letter to President Gitanas Nausėda, who will then issue a decree to dissolve the entire government. The president may appoint one of the outgoing ministers as interim prime minister until a new government is established.

Sinkevičius’s candidacy must still be discussed with the president before being presented to the Seimas (parliament). Lawmakers will then have up to a week to vote on the new prime minister.