Rinkēvičs indirectly addresses minister's dismissal over drunk driving

Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs has published a social media statement that appears connected to Sunday's news about the dismissal of Welfare Minister Reinis Uzulnieks. Uzulnieks was removed from his ministerial post after police stopped him driving a car while heavily under the influence of alcohol.

In his post, the president did not name any specific person or event, but the timing closely coincided with the news of the dismissal, suggesting an indirect reference to the case. Rinkēvičs stated that driving under the influence of alcohol is both dangerous and criminal behavior, and that under certain circumstances it carries criminal liability.

Harsh punishment warranted

The president emphasized that such conduct deserves severe punishment. His message conveyed the principle that legal norms apply equally to everyone, regardless of their position or social status.

The case involving the former welfare minister has caused significant public reaction, as it concerns a high-ranking official caught violating a law that the state itself requires citizens to follow. The incident has sparked public discussion about the accountability and behavioral standards expected of government officials, both professionally and in their personal lives.