Latvia: Opposition conservative figure tasked with forming new government

Saturday 16 May 2026 - 15:45

Latvia is entering a new phase of political uncertainty after the collapse of its centrist coalition government. Following internal tensions and a loss of parliamentary support, Prime Minister Evika Siliņa announced her resignation, opening the way for a political reorganization ahead of the upcoming legislative elections scheduled for October.

In response to the crisis, the President of Latvia has appointed Andris Kulbergs, a member of the conservative opposition, to lead efforts to form a new government. His mission is to build a temporary governing structure capable of ensuring stability until voters return to the polls.

The decision comes after weeks of political instability triggered by disagreements within the ruling coalition, particularly concerning the handling of a recent security incident involving drone activity linked to regional tensions. The controversy led to the resignation of the defense minister and further weakened the government’s internal cohesion.

President Edgars Rinkēvičs emphasized the need for institutional continuity during consultations with parliamentary parties, stressing that the priority is to maintain governance and public trust during this transitional period.

Kulbergs is now expected to negotiate with various political forces in order to assemble a functional cabinet capable of managing state affairs until the elections reshape the parliamentary landscape.