Kulbergs wants fewer ministries, rules out coalition with Šlesers' party

Andris Kulbergs, leader of the "Apvienotais saraksts" (United List) party that won the 15th Saeima election and the country's sitting prime minister, outlined his vision for forming the next government in an interview with Latvian Television's morning program "Rīta panorāma."

Coalition talks

Kulbergs said his party would be open to coalition negotiations with any political force willing to agree to the changes he considers necessary. However, he explicitly ruled out one option: his party will not sit in the same cabinet as Ainars Šlesers' party "Latvia First" (LPV).

Fewer ministries, faster growth

The prime minister reaffirmed his plan to reduce the number of government ministries, but cautioned that spending cuts alone would not be enough to strengthen the economy. According to Kulbergs, trimming budget expenditures is necessary, but it must happen alongside faster economic growth — both measures are needed together, not just one of them.

No final decision has yet been made on how ministerial portfolios will be divided in the next government. Still, Kulbergs indicated that he believes the finance minister's post should remain with the United List.