The coalition avoids assessments of the ethics of Pūce’s decision to return to the Saeima

Asked whether Pūce’s decision to return to the Saeima after leaving the post of minister, admitting to lying about the use of the pass, is ethical and will not cast a shadow coalition for further work, politicians emphasized that in general, becoming a deputy is Pūce’s decision.

Raivis Dzintars, the leader of the National Union, said that if there has been such unethical behavior, then “however, taking responsibility and removing the minister is a radical step”. “Whether Pūce should continue as a deputy is a decision of Pūce and the party, because they have to answer to the voters for the choices made,” said Dzintars, adding that professionally he can say “only good words” about working with Pūce, because Pūce was competent and kept his word.

The leader of the new conservative party, the Minister of Justice Jānis Bordāns, said that it is an individual decision of Pūce to work or not to work in the Saeima. In Bordan’s opinion, however, what has happened should be looked at more broadly, taking into account the possible illegal use of large-scale financial resources in the political force represented by Pūce, “as a result of which the Saeima and Riga City Council elections may have been stolen”. Therefore, in Bordan’s view, the “pass case” should be assessed in a less common problem situation.

Prime Minister Krišjānis Kariņš (JV) emphasized that it was clear that “in such circumstances, the Minister would no longer be able to work in the government”, recalling that he was waiting for a candidate for a new minister. Kariņš pointed out that the government still has a long way to go, so it must be in full force.

“For Development / About!” (AP) Daniels Pavļuts, the leader of the Saeima faction, pointed out that Pūce’s return to the Saeima is a choice he respects. The politician emphasized that in connection with any accusations and suspicions expressed against the HR or its member organizations, the party association would take the most serious matter, cooperate with law enforcement officers and take appropriate action if violations are found.

Pavluts also drew attention to the fact that Pūce has resigned not only from the position of the Minister, but also “For Development / For!” co-chair and head of “Latvia’s Development”. The politician pointed out that in the sense of the party association, observance of ethical norms is not a choice for politicians and the set bar in this matter is higher than for other residents.

Minister of Welfare Ramona Petraviča (KPV LV) indicated that she accepts the choice of Juris Pūce (AP) to hold the position of a Member of the Saeima, which Pūce has probably also discussed with his colleagues in his political association. The Minister also said that Pūce is a knowledgeable colleague with whom Petraviča had the pleasure of working with the government.