Saeima speaker Aboltina turns down PM role, talks continue on new government

Saeima Speaker Solvita Aboltina has turned down an offer head the next government in Latvia, reports LETA

Aboltina confirmed an unofficial offer from Latvian President Andris Berzins, but said the president had respected her decision to not take it.

The official added she is currently the leader of Unity political party and heading the parliament, and that in the current situation a candidate with a much better knowledge of fiscal and macroeconomic matters is necessary. At the same time, Aboltina pointed out that she has personal and family reasons why she cannot become prime minister.

Asked whether she could change her mind, Aboltina said that discussions will continue with political partners, as well as with the president. She said that the next government must work as a team, and cannot be dominated by public disagreements.

She also expressed the point of view that the partners will be able to find a solution, which will guarantee a stable government until the next elections.

Answering a question whether a new PM candidate will be put forward or will Unity insist on one of the candidates it has already put forward, Aboltina pointed out that consultations with parties will continue, and that she does not rule out any solution.

Officials will continue talks on the formation of a new government today.

On Dec. 4 , the president turned down Unity's PM candidates. They are Defense Minister Artis Pabriks, European Parliament Member Krisjanis Karins and former Culture Minister Ints Dalderis, concluding the first round of talks.

Berzins does not believe that the three prime minister candidates put forward by Unity are the "strongest possible" candidates Unity can offer.

According to talks behind the scenes at the parliament, Berzins would like to see Saeima Speaker Solvita Aboltina to be put forward as a prime minister candidate.

It cannot be ruled out that pending ruling coalition partners could reach agreement to support one of the candidates for the prime minister suggested by Unity, although they have all been turned down by Berzins, Unity Saeima Group Chairman Dzintars Zakis told reporters yesterday.

Unofficial reports indicate that Unity will try to achieve support for Pabriks' candidacy.