Lithuania’s ruling coalition faces reshuffle as Social Democrats propose replacing Nemuno Aušra

The Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP) has proposed replacing the Nemuno Aušra party in the ruling coalition, a move that could trigger a change in prime minister and government structure, LRT.lt reports.

LSDP leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius presented the proposal to the party council on Saturday, stating that the current coalition dynamic had reached a breaking point. “Enough is enough,” he said, citing strategic disagreements and instability caused by Nemuno Aušra’s actions, including their opposition to the establishment of a military training ground in Kapčiamiestis and controversial statements by party leader Remigijus Žemaitaitis, who was found guilty of antisemitic remarks.

“We see no progress toward stability. Instead, the party’s leader may even be radicalising,” Sinkevičius said. “Society needs the opposite: stability, clear direction, and decision-making—not political noise.”

If approved, the Democratic Union “For Lithuania” would replace Nemuno Aušra in the coalition, reducing the government’s parliamentary majority from 80 to 75 seats. This shift would complicate voting in the Seimas (parliament) but aligns with the LSDP’s goal of improving its public image ahead of next year’s municipal elections.

Negotiations with the Democratic Union are expected next week. Any coalition changes would require presidential approval for new ministerial appointments, including a potential new prime minister.

When asked if he would take the premiership, Sinkevičius avoided a direct answer but implied willingness, stating he would not “shirk responsibility” as the architect of the proposed changes. “It would be strange if the party leader who proposed this plan said its implementation was not his concern,” he said. He added that he had no criticism of current Prime Minister Ingrida Ruginienė’s work, but a change in coalition would necessitate forming an entirely new government under constitutional procedures.

The current ruling coalition, formed after the 2024 Seimas elections, initially included the LSDP, Nemuno Aušra, and the Democratic Union. However, the Democrats were later replaced by the Lithuanian Farmers, Greens, and Christian Families Union faction.