Currently it is unclear which of the three candidates could receive a confident majority of votes in the Saeima. During debates held by LTV, each candidate shares their opinions in regard to their role if they get elected as President of Latvia.
New Unity’s candidate, Minister of Foreign Affairs Edgars Rinkēvičs said he wants to see Latvia more modern when it comes to human rights, education and competitiveness, as well as strong and safe.
He also said that in the current geopolitical situation in the world [war in Ukraine] safety and stability is the highest priority of all countries.
According to him, important requirement for the president is “having experience, knowledge and contacts” in the current geopolitical situation.
Progressive Party’s candidate Elīna Pinto put emphasis on solving social and economic problems. “I am here to give Latvia a new opportunity and second breath. To give power to that quarter of our strength that is often left in the shadows,” said Pinto,
adding that a quarter of Latvia’s population live in poverty, suffer from grey economy and domestic violence.
According to her, these topics have to be at the top of the president’s list of priorities.
Combined List’s candidate Uldis Pīlēns said resolving social and economic problems should be one of the president’s top priorities.
“I believe currently people need hope for the future of families living in Latvia, their children and grandchildren. Maintaining this vision requires a great deal of involvement from the president – for a good Latvia and a good future,” said Pīlēns.
Elections of a new President of Latvia will take place in the Saeima on the 31st of May. A total of three candidates have been proposed by political parties. These candidates are: Uldis Pīlēns, Edgars Rinkēvičs and Elīna Pinto.
The ruling coalition has yet to agree on a single candidate. Policy-makers allow that votes from opposition parties may turn out decisive. There are also speculations that some parties may receive posts in the government in exchange for votes.
Also read: Changes to Latvian government may serve as reward for votes in presidential elections, says National Alliance leader