Media: Braže set to retain FM post in new Latvian government lineup

A preliminary agreement on the distribution of ministerial portfolios in a potential new Latvian government indicates that current Foreign Minister Baiba Braže is set to retain her position, LSM reports.

Unconfirmed reports suggest that negotiations over the weekend finalised the allocation of posts in the future government led by Andris Kulbergs. The talks were marked by disagreements both between prospective coalition partners and within political parties.

According to LTV, the “New Unity” party, represented by former Prime Minister Evika Siliņa, has set a condition: either it is granted key ministries, or it will not join the coalition, which could lead to a minority government scenario. Such an outcome is not acceptable to the National Alliance.

Under the current arrangements, the post of foreign minister would remain with Baiba Braže, while the defence minister is expected to be a military figure and former prime minister Raivis Melnis.

It is also expected that the current economy minister and the speaker of the Saeima (Latvian parliament) will retain their positions.

On May 25, Kulbergs is scheduled to officially present proposals on the distribution of ministerial portfolios to the president.

By Jeyhun Aghazada