Tavars Ready to Stay on as Minister in Kulbergs' Government

Edgars Tavars, one of the leaders of the United List (AS) party, would like to continue as Minister for Smart Administration and Regional Development in the next Latvian government, which is being formed by AS politician Andris Kulbergs. Tavars said it is too early to name specific candidates for ministerial posts, as coalition talks are still under way.

"I don't see a need to turn down such an opportunity, if it arises. I see that there is still a great deal to do in regional policy," Tavars said. According to him, no decisions on the composition of the next government have been made, and various cooperation models are still being discussed.

Tavars also mentioned discussions on making public administration more efficient. They involve reorganising certain ministries or reviewing their functions in order to cut spending and improve governance.

Background

President Edgars Rinkēvičs tasked Kulbergs with forming the new government after the 15th Saeima, Latvia's parliament, convened. Kulbergs has previously said he hopes to present a model for the new cabinet by the national holiday in mid-November.

Kulbergs is acting as justice minister until further notice. The previous justice minister, Edvards Smiltēns (AS), stepped down because he became Speaker of the 15th Saeima. On Tuesday the Saeima also elected the rest of its Presidium: Raimonds Vējonis and Ināra Mūrniece (National Alliance) became deputy speakers, Ramona Petraviča of "Latvia First" became secretary, and Antoņina Ņenaševa of the Progressives became deputy secretary.

Balance of power in parliament

In the Saeima election, AS won 41 seats, "Latvia First" 17, the "Sovereign Power"/"Alliance of New Latvians" bloc 15, the National Alliance and the Progressives ten each, and New Unity seven.