14 Lists Submitted for Saeima Elections; Experts Note Restrained Programs and Impact of Government Change

As Latvia prepares for the 15th Saeima elections, the Central Election Commission has received 14 candidate lists from parties and their alliances. Experts analyzing the submissions point to several notable features.

Firstly, some lists show candidate 'migration' between parties, indicating instability in the political landscape. Secondly, most party programs are considered rather restrained and formal, even described as 'literary essays' – lacking concrete, measurable promises and fresh ideas.

A striking observation is the near absence of any mention of the Istanbul Convention in the programs, which previously sparked widespread public protests. Additionally, experts note that the so-called protest parties lack many prominent and well-known public figures who could attract voters' attention.

Political scientist Iveta Kažoka, speaking on Latvijas Radio program 'Krustpunktā', emphasized that the government change at the end of May has fundamentally reshaped the political chessboard ahead of the elections. These changes have influenced both party strategies and candidate placements, creating new power dynamics and alliances.