Negotiations begin – are the SocDems making a mistake?

The Social Democrats have decided to negotiate with the “Peasants.” Unofficial sources sources suggest the Social Democrats are aiming for four ministries. The Seimas Chairman post will remain with the “Peasants.” The Social Democrats entering a coalition as the junior partner is very risky believe some political scientists.

After a long presidium meeting, the Social Democrats decided to begin coalition negotiations with the “Peasants” after all. Party deputy Chairman Algirdas Sysas reminds that this, however, does not guarantee that a coalition will definitely be formed.

“We are not signing a coalition after all, we are beginning further discussions, further, very specifically on what we could include into the programme. The topics we have no disputes in we can write in immediately, but for those that have a certain period of implementation because there are many varied proposals, in terms of how much time it will take, how to arrange it, there are things to talk about,” stated A. Sysas.

The Social Democrats did not reveal what ministries they are aiming for and what candidates they intend to put forth. They claim they are even willing to yield the post of Prime Minister.

Political scientist Linas Kojala sees the Social Democrat’s choice as risky however. “If we think that the coalition will last all four years, that further fractures won’t occur, shows that the Social Democrats will be the junior partner and this is not a beneficial trend for one of the large parties, particularly knowing that the “Peasants,” who will be clearly dominant, are those who took many Social Democrat votes and this can help them establish themselves as one of the main centre left political powers,” explained L. Kojala.

Ramūnas Karbauskis of the Peasant Greens hopes to conclude negotiations within the week.