Premjeru aspiring social democrat leader’s father: a difficult phase awaits him

Rimantas Sinkevičius, the father of Social Democratic Party leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius, says his son faces a restless and challenging period after announcing his bid to lead Lithuania’s next government, LRT reports.

“A restless phase of life awaits him, a difficult phase, a burden of responsibility, many problems,” the parliamentarian told journalists in the Seimas on Tuesday.

Rimantas Sinkevičius, who chairs the Seimas National Security and Defence Committee, said he offered his son advice but did not try to influence his decision. He wished him success and added that his congratulations would depend on the outcome.

“We’ll wait with the congratulations,” he said. “I think it’s the right decision. If you become party leader, you are responsible for that political community and must have the tools to ensure it remains in power, grows stronger, and becomes more democratic.”

Mindaugas Sinkevičius would replace Inga Ruginienė as prime minister. Ruginienė has held the position since last autumn, when a new cabinet was formed following the resignation of Gintautas Paluckas.