Unity nominates Zatlers

RIGA -- The ruling "Unity" political union along with For A Good Latvia (PLL) have officially nominated incumbent Latvian president Valdis Zatlers for re-election.

The presidential vote, which takes place in the country's parliament, is currently scheduled for June 2. To win he will need a total of 51 votes in the 100-seat legislature. The vote will be a secret ballott.

Zatlers, a former surgeon, had previously publically stated his desire for another term in office.

The president is currently the only candidate that has been officially nominated for the upcoming elections. The deadline for nomination is May 24.

Saeima’s opposition alliance All for Latvia-For Fatherland and Freedom/LNNK have announced that they will also support the re-election of Zatlers.

Unity, which has 33 seats in the 100 member Saeima, has expressed support for Zatlers, as well as opposition For a Good Latvia, which has eight seats. All for Latvia-For Fatherland and Freedom/LNNK has seven seats. If they all vote as pledged then Zatlers will need just three more opposition votes to win the election.