Lithuanian president appoints new prime minister Instructs to form government

On July 22, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda signed a decree appointing Ingrida Šimonīte as prime minister and instructing her to form a cabinet within 15 days.

Nauseda won the presidential election in May. The inauguration of the head of state took place on 12 July. On the same day, the Lithuanian government headed by Shimonite resigned, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian news outlets.

Nauseda immediately by decree instructed the prime minister and ministers to temporarily fulfil their duties until a new government was approved.

The so-called "courtesy resignation" took place when the prime minister checks whether she enjoys the confidence of the parliament. On 16 July, the Sejm expressed confidence in Šimonita.

The prime minister will have to submit to the president for approval the cabinet she heads, which Nauseda said back during the presidential election campaign that he would like to see changed.

However, ruling parties have previously argued that the resignation procedure is purely ceremonial and that cabinet changes should be up to the prime minister.

Leaders of the ruling liberal parties have also said there is no need to change ministers because of the upcoming Sejm elections in October.

Nauseda will serve as president until 2029. He first took office as head of state in 2019.