Lithuania’s opposition Social Democratic Party (LSDP) has emerged victorious in the parliamentary election runoff held on Sunday, according to preliminary results from the Central Electoral Commission.
In a remarkable turn of events, the LSDP secured 32 single-mandate constituencies in the second round, adding to the 20 seats won in the first round two weeks ago. This significant gain positions the LSDP as the leading party in the Seimas, Lithuania’s parliament.
The ruling Homeland Union-Lithuanian Christian Democrats faced a setback, coming in second with a provisional faction of 28 members in the Seimas. Meanwhile, the Dawn of Nemunas will hold 20 seats, followed by the Union of Democrats “For Lithuania” (DSVL) with 14 seats. The Liberal Movement of the Republic of Lithuania secured 12 seats, and the Lithuanian Peasant Popular Union (LVZS) garnered eight seats.
The election results have set the stage for potential coalition talks. On Sunday night, Saulius Skvernelis, chairman of DSVL, visited the headquarters of the victorious LSDP. In discussions with LSDP leader Vilija Blinkeviciute, the two explored possibilities of forming a future coalition government. “We will continue the consultations,” Blinkeviciute told the Baltic News Service (BNS).
Voter turnout in the second round reached 41.30 percent, as reported by the Central Electoral Commission after the polls closed on Sunday night. While this marks an increase from the 39.24 percent turnout in the 2020 runoff elections, it falls short of the 52.18 percent turnout recorded in this year’s first round held a fortnight ago.
The election outcome signals a shift in Lithuania’s political landscape, with the LSDP poised to influence the nation’s direction significantly. As coalition negotiations proceed, eyes are on how the new government will address pressing issues and steer Lithuania’s future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
