The 99-member Saeima

UNCLAS RIGA 000391

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PGOV LG
SUBJECT: The 99-member Saeima



1. (U) As Latvia approaches Presidential elections on May 31, it is
worth noting that the Saeima (parliament) is missing one member, and
is working with only 99 members, rather than the usual 100. Juris
Boldans, (Fatherland and Freedom (TB)/LNNK),is not currently
entitled to take part or cast votes in the Saeima and its committee
sessions due to charges of falsification of ballots in favor of
himself in last October's election. He is suspended until the
charges are removed or the court finds him guilty. The court's
decision is expected on June 12.


2. (U) The day after the Saeima elections in October 2006, a member
of a regional election committee reported alleged organized
falsification of ballots in support of TB/LNNK candidate Juris
Boldans. However, the Saeima approved his mandate as a member of
parliament before criminal charges were brought against him, thus
creating the current situation. He is not able to participate in
sessions of the Saeima and its committees', but is entitled to
observe Saeima sessions in the gallery and has been assigned a
working office. Though Boldans has admitted no guilt, he has left
his political party. If he does leave parliament, his seat would go
TB/LNNK and the coalition would pick up an extra vote in the
Saeima.

Waser