Former Lithuanian PMs urge decisiveness from incoming leader, cite cabinet concerns

Lithuania's incoming Prime Minister, M. Sinkevičius, faces scrutiny from former prime ministers who question whether he will fully leverage his potential to lead the country. As Sinkevičius and his proposed cabinet prepare to be sworn in, former leaders I. Šimonytė and A. Butkevičius have voiced both cautious optimism and significant reservations.

I. Šimonytė, who led the government from 2020 to 2024, believes Sinkevičius has the capacity to govern more effectively than his predecessor. However, she expressed concern over some of his cabinet choices, suggesting they indicate a potential reluctance to fully commit to the role. "The potential for things to be better is definitely there. And I think none of us are enemies of Lithuania; we want things to be better for Lithuania," Šimonytė stated. "But some decisions along the way raise doubt as to whether that potential is truly desired to be utilized."

Šimonytė specifically pointed to Sinkevičius's apparent preference for loyalists over competent individuals in his cabinet selections. "This is not good, because when a leader chooses people loyal to him, it means one of two things: either he himself feels insecure and therefore wants supportive and agreeable people around him, or he has tasks for those ministers that other ministers, with professional self-respect, might not be able to carry out," she explained. She also questioned why Sinkevičius, who had previously served as interim prime minister, did not seize an opportunity last year to form his own government, suggesting a possible hesitation to embrace the full weight of responsibility.

A. Butkevičius, who headed the government from 2012 to 2016, stressed the importance of decisiveness for the new prime minister. "Greater determination is needed, emphasizing and highlighting the current situation, political inequality, and clearly outlining concrete directions so that there is no turning back," Butkevičius told Elta. He added that the future head of government must demonstrate resolve and a clear commitment to his responsibilities.