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Latvia 15th Saeima elections

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2026-09-30 18:07 UTC → 2026-09-30 19:43 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Latvia is preparing for the 15th Saeima elections, with the main election day scheduled for October 3. Early voting has officially commenced at 933 polling stations nationwide, running from September 28 through October 2. As of September 30, the Central Election Commission (CVK) reports that more than 88,000 voters have cast their ballots, representing approximately 5.66% of the 1,557,615 eligible electorate. Turnout varies by region: Riga has seen 6.48%, Vidzeme 6.19%, and Zemgale 4.69%. In Jelgava, participation stands at 2.39%, with the highest activity recorded at the Jelgava Culture House. The CVK noted that early voting allows citizens to change their minds and cast a new vote before the official election day. Additionally, the State Digital Development Agency reported that the election platform has remained stable. In Riga, initial reports indicate a calm start, though queues have formed at stations in shopping centers. Election officials have advised voters to use smaller district polling stations to avoid these crowds. While operations have been largely smooth, minor technical difficulties were noted regarding the use of new mobile devices by staff. The election features several prominent figures who have previously campaigned for Prime Minister, including Uģis Mitrevics of the National Alliance, Ainārs Šlesers of Latvia First, and Arigo Toro of the Gobzema List. An investigation by LTV’s ‘De facto’ revealed that nearly two-thirds of the 14 submitted election lists include candidates facing criminal charges or accusations, ranging from fraud and abuse of office to document forgery and inciting ethnic hatred. Specific cases include Aleksandrs Bartaševičs (the ‘Rēzekne SPA’ case), Aivars Kraps (large-scale fraud), and Juris Jakovins (document forgery). Additionally, Aleksejs Rosļikovs of the ‘Stabilitātei!’ party is reportedly in Belarus to avoid court proceedings regarding charges of inciting national and ethnic hatred. The party ‘Latvija pirmajā vietā’ (LPV) holds the highest number of accused candidates, including leader Ainārs Šlesers. accusations. Political debates have also emerged regarding birth ~~incentives. Parties~~ incentives, with parties such as LPV and ‘Gobzema saraksts’ ~~have proposed~~ proposing a one-time payment of 5,000 euros for each newborn, a significant increase from the state birth grant set to rise to 600 euros in 2026. Critics have questioned the fiscal impact and the efficacy of one-time payments versus sustained social support. newborn.

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