Savickas noncommittal on becoming energy minister pending coalition decision

Lukas Savickas has stated he cannot yet confirm whether he will be appointed as the new energy minister, explaining that the Democratic faction's board will make its decision on Wednesday.

"I cannot confirm this yet, because the decision of the Democratic board will be made on Wednesday. It will be made primarily regarding the text of the coalition agreement itself. Then, after signing, the Democrats will be able to make a decision on the individuals they delegate to these positions," Savickas told journalists at the Seimas on Tuesday.

Savickas acknowledged that the current government is functioning and an agreement to change the government is imminent. He stressed the need to respect the process and proceed in order without rushing. Having previously served as a minister, he understands the demanding nature of the role and indicated he would approach the responsibility seriously if it falls to him again.

Rumors suggest that the Democratic Union "Vardan Lietuvos" may receive three ministries, Health, Agriculture, and Energy, in the coalition negotiations. If this occurs, Savickas could potentially replace the current Energy Minister, Žygimantas Vaičiūnas. Vaičiūnas became minister after the 2024 Seimas elections, delegated by the Democrats who were then in coalition with the Social Democrats and "Nemuno aušra." However, after the Democrats left the coalition last summer, Vaičiūnas remained in his post.

Savickas also highlighted the importance of team cohesion for political stability in Lithuania. "I think what we want more in our politics is consistency. We all understand perfectly well that we have our team's jersey, we all have our organizations, communities, which receive mandates, which delegate their representatives. Knowing your team and sticking to it in both better and harder times, I think, is important. It brings much more stability to Lithuanian political life," he said.