Latvian Saeima begins electing a new president

On May 31, the Latvian Saeima began electing a new president to succeed the current head of state, Egils Levits.

This is reported by Delfi.

The special session of the parliament began at 9 am, and at the time of publication, the first round of voting had begun.

Political parties have nominated three candidates for the presidency: current Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkēvičs from the New Unity party, Uldis Pilens, who is supported by the United List coalition party, and Elina Pinto, who was nominated by the Social Democrats. However, the current head of state, Egils Levits, refused to participate in the elections.

Voting may take place in one or more rounds. A new head of state can be elected on the first try if a majority of 51 out of 100 MPs vote for him or her. Rounds of voting with the same or different candidates are held until the president is elected.

Author - Olena Madiak, 31/05/2023