Lithuanian MP Katelynas does not confirm receiving offer to replace interior minister Kondratovičius

MP Martynas Katelynas has not confirmed whether he received an offer from prime minister-designate Mindaugas Sinkevičius to become the new interior minister, LRT reports.

Katelynas, Sinkevičius’ deputy in the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP), told journalists on Thursday that he would consider any such offer if it were made. “We often talk with the party chairman, but I wouldn’t want to comment on any private conversations,” he said. “We discuss many ministerial posts, so I wouldn’t single out one.”

Earlier, the Lrytas portal, citing sources, reported that acting Interior Minister Vladislavas Kondratovičius might not retain his position in the new government, with Katelynas as a possible replacement. Katelynas stated he takes all state service duties seriously and would “consider, evaluate, and see what could benefit the state” if offered the role.

Sinkevičius has not yet disclosed whether he intends to replace Kondratovičius. In an interview with Žinių radijas, he said that in forming the new cabinet, he would consider not only candidates’ experience but also their energy and efficiency. “The time will come, and I will certainly announce the entire 14-member cabinet composition. Of course, I need experience and qualifications, but also drive, willingness to act, and the courage not just to administer and play it safe, but to act boldly,” Sinkevičius said.

On Thursday evening, President Gitanas Nausėda will submit Sinkevičius’ candidacy for prime minister to the Seimas. Parliament must decide on the nomination within a week of its presentation, with a vote scheduled for June 30. The appointment requires a simple majority.

If approved, Sinkevičius must present the formed and president-approved cabinet and government programme to the Seimas within 15 days. The government receives its mandate once a majority of participating MPs endorses its programme.

Under a coalition agreement signed by three Seimas factions, the Democrats will take the Health, Agriculture, and Energy ministries. The Lithuanian Farmers, Greens, and Christian Families Union faction will retain the Economy and Innovation, and Justice ministries. The remaining ministries will go to the Social Democrats.

According to Lrytas sources, Sinkevičius is also considering replacing acting Culture Minister Vaida Aleknavičienė, with possible successors being Culture Ministry Chancellor Lukas Alsys or Deputy Minister Matas Drukteinis. For the environment portfolio, LSDP leader Sinkevičius is reportedly considering Social Democratic members of the Seimas Environmental Protection Committee, Alvydas Mockus and Audrius Radvilavičius.