Kulbergs blames infighting for low turnout and promises fewer compromises

Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs of the United List says government infighting and delays to reforms may have kept voters from the polls. He has promised fewer compromises in the next government, LSM reported.

Kulbergs called the 51.8% turnout a poor result and said voters may have grown tired of a government that was divided over change. He said there would be fewer unnecessary disputes in the next parliament and government, if his party were given the chance to lead.

He said coalition partners had not been ready to make changes or take decisions on serious issues. After his party’s election success, Kulbergs expects governing to be easier, with fewer compromises between parties.

Kulbergs said his government could include professional ministers, but not candidates whom voters crossed off their ballots.

He also promised to monitor the government and parliament until a new government is formed, warning against decisions on funding or other measures in the final weeks. He said coalition partners had promised to act responsibly and that he expected them to keep their word.

According to the Central Election Commission, 807,067 people, or 51.81% of eligible voters, took part in the 15th Saeima election. The turnout was the lowest ever recorded in a Saeima election.