Prime Minister Evika Siliņa stated after a meeting with Colonel Raivis Melnis that it would be difficult to find a more suitable candidate for the position of Minister of Defense in the current situation. The appointment is being discussed against the backdrop of a conflict within the coalition following the dismissal of Andris Sprūds.
Prime Minister Evika Siliņa publicly supported her candidate for the position of Minister of Defense, Raivis Melnis, on Tuesday.
After a meeting with the colonel in the Cabinet of Ministers, the head of government stated that it would be difficult to find a stronger candidate for this position at the moment.
According to Siliņa, the question is also addressed to the opposition — can anyone propose a person who can ensure the result "necessary for all of us" in the current situation.
The Prime Minister emphasized that she is ready to discuss Melnis's candidacy with all factions of the Saeima.
The appointment of a new Minister of Defense comes amid serious tensions within the ruling coalition. After Siliņa's decision to dismiss the minister representing the "Progressives," Andris Sprūds, relations between the partners have noticeably deteriorated.
The "Progressives" have already stated that, in their opinion, Siliņa is unable to responsibly lead the government. The party plans to make a final decision on further actions after a separate meeting with the Prime Minister scheduled for Wednesday.
What is important to understand is that the conflict surrounding the Ministry of Defense is now going far beyond a typical personnel reshuffle. It concerns the stability of the coalition itself, especially against the backdrop of increased attention to security issues following the drone incidents in Latgale.
These events were the formal reason for Sprūds's dismissal. Siliņa stated that after the incidents, the minister lost her trust.
In "New Unity," they assert that problems in the Ministry of Defense have been accumulating for a long time. Among the complaints are high staff turnover and difficulties in interaction with state secretaries.
Sprūds himself previously explained his resignation by political responsibility for the drone incidents and a desire not to involve the army in political processes.
So far, the leadership of "New Unity" has not explained how it plans to reduce tensions with the "Progressives" and maintain a stable coalition.
In the coming days, the issue surrounding the new Minister of Defense may become one of the key factors for the future fate of the government.
Leave a comment