Kreslins to resign from Saeima

  • 2014-04-02
  • From wire report

RIGA - Saeima member Karlis Kreslins (All For Latvia-For Fatherland And Freedom/LNNK, VL-TB/LNNK) resigned on March 27 following media reports that his son had been detained by the police for the possession of a large amount of so-called “legal drugs”, VL-TB/LNNK press secretary Laila Ozolina told LETA.
“Being aware that my work in Saeima may prompt suspicions about unbiased investigation of my son’s case, and that the incident may in some ways tarnish the reputation of VL-TB/LNNK, I hereby announce that I will relinquish my Saeima member’s mandate,” said the politician.

In an interview with Latvian State Television the evening before, Kreslins admitted that if the information about his son had not been made public, he would not be stepping down because nothing has been proven so far. However, recent media reports may be damaging to VL-TB/LNNK’s reputation, hence his decision to leave.
Kreslins has acted as befits a statesman, commented VL-TB/LNNK co-chairman Raivis Dzintars, adding that he respected Kreslins’ decision. “Investigation is under way, there are many unknowns, besides, a father should hardly be held responsible for the mistakes his grown children have made. Nevertheless, Kreslins has shown his principled position. Whether drugs are legal or illegal is of no importance - drugs is something where no compromises are possible,” said Dzintars.

Kreslins said he did not have a close relationship with his son, and was not inquiring about the matter so as to not meddle with the investigation.