Prime Minister Evika Siliņa’s promised “boost” in government performance has so far resulted in three new ministers, the announcement of the “4×4” plan, and a statement from the President that it’s time for the government to step up or make way for someone else. What exactly triggered Edgars Rinkēvičs’ dissatisfaction, and will ministerial reshuffles be the magic solution to improving government performance? BNN sought insight from political analyst and Mediju Tilts co-owner Filips Rajevskis.
Despite Siliņa’s announced government “restart,” partially realized through the replacement of three ministers, it seems the President remains unimpressed. According to Rajevskis, the President is attentive to public sentiment, which is reflected in party ratings. “Public expects a government that is capable of making and implementing decisions, especially considering the political agenda shaped by U.S. President Donald Trump. At the moment, Siliņa’s government does not appear to meet this demand. Everyone talks about priorities and percentages, but there is no clear plan for achieving them—no concrete benchmarks. Even the 4×4 plan fails to provide these.”
As an example of government inaction, Rajevskis recalls the President’s remarks on construction regulations. “After meeting with Siliņa, the President pointed out—quite typically—that streamlining bureaucracy in construction was promised back in September last year. Now it’s March, and those promised changes haven’t even reached Parliament. This illustrates the government’s inability to act.”
When asked whether it seems odd that Anda Čakša and Kaspars Briškens, dismissed from the government for underperformance, have now been appointed as chairs of two parliamentary committees, Rajevskis explains that committee leadership positions are slightly lower in rank than ministerial roles, but still hold significant influence.
However, in his view, the real issue remains unresolved. “These reshuffles keep happening, but the core problem—securing greater support for the government and coalition in Parliament—remains unaddressed. The fact that their vote count in Parliament hasn’t increased, and that the coalition is operating with a very narrow majority, is one of the main reasons for the government’s weak decision-making ability.”
Rajevskis is also sceptical that replacing ministers will magically solve all problems. “Of course, relationships will change somewhat, but I don’t think the fundamental circumstances or situation will improve. The issues are far more complex than just individual politicians struggling to work together.”
When asked what should be done in this situation, Rajevskis sarcastically replies: “Let’s wait for the next episode—and let the government prove otherwise.”