The Lithuanian Parliament, known as the Seimas, has approved Gintautas Paluckas as the country’s next Prime Minister. In a decisive vote held on Friday, Paluckas secured 88 votes in favour, with 34 opposing and six abstentions, signalling a clear mandate to lead Lithuania’s 19th government.
Paluckas was nominated for the premiership by President Gitanas Nausėda following recommendations from the newly formed ruling coalition. This coalition comprises the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP), Dawn of Nemunas (PPNA), and the Democratic Union "For Lithuania" (DSVL). Together, these parties have united to steer the nation under their collective vision.
After his nomination, Paluckas met with President Nausėda on Thursday to discuss the process of forming a new Cabinet. According to the Baltic News Service (BNS), Paluckas now has 15 days to assemble his Cabinet and present his government’s program to the Seimas for approval.
Paluckas, aged 45, brings a wealth of political experience to his new role. A seasoned member of the LSDP, he served as the party’s leader from 2017 to 2021. Additionally, he was the deputy mayor of Vilnius between 2015 and 2019.
Beyond his political credentials, Paluckas has a professional background in computer science, which adds a modern perspective to his approach to governance.
His appointment comes after the LSDP emerged as the leading party in the recent parliamentary elections held on October 13 and October 27. The party secured 52 out of 141 seats, establishing itself as a dominant force in Lithuanian politics.
The coalition partners, PPNA and DSVL, contributed 20 and 14 seats respectively, further strengthening the alliance's majority in the Seimas.
Paluckas’s ascent to the Prime Minister’s office was facilitated by a key decision within the LSDP leadership. Vilija Blinkeviciute, the current leader of the LSDP, opted to retain her position in the European Parliament rather than accept the premiership or a seat in the Seimas.
This strategic move paved the way for Paluckas, who has been a prominent figure within the party, to take on the top role.
As Paluckas prepares to lead the new government, the coalition’s success marks a significant shift in Lithuania’s political landscape. The LSDP's resurgence and the collaboration with its coalition partners reflect the electorate's trust in their vision.
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