Lithuania's Social Democratic Upset: A Historic Electoral Shift

Lithuania's centre-left Social Democrats triumphed in the national elections, unseating the ruling centre-right Homeland Union. The Social Democrats secured 52 seats, planning a coalition with two smaller parties. This shift underscores a historic electoral pendulum pattern. Despite economic growth, the outgoing government faced criticism over pandemic measures and migration issues.

Lithuania's centre-left opposition parties celebrated a historic victory on Monday, sweeping 52 seats in the national parliament and unseating the ruling centre-right coalition, led by Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonyte. The result marked a significant shift in the country's political landscape.

The Social Democrats, under Vilija Blinkeviciute, are set to form a coalition with the Democratic Union and the Union of Peasants and Greens. Together, they aim to control 74 seats in the 141-seat Seimas, as Vilnius supporters cheered the change.

Amid tensions with Russia, Lithuania's election revealed voter dissatisfaction with the prior government's pandemic and migration policies, despite economic advancements. Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis has resigned from political leadership following the voter turnout of 41.31%, among the highest for a runoff.

(With inputs from agencies.)