Lithuania's Political Landscape Shifts: Sadzius Appointed Acting PM

Lithuania's President Gitanas Nauseda has appointed Finance Minister Rimantas Sadzius as acting prime minister. This follows the resignation of Prime Minister Gintautas Paluckas due to pressure over his business ties. The Social Democrat party is expected to nominate the next prime minister pending a parliamentary vote.

In a notable shift within Lithuania's political framework, President Gitanas Nauseda has appointed Finance Minister Rimantas Sadzius as the interim prime minister. The decision comes in the wake of Gintautas Paluckas's resignation amid scrutiny of his business affiliations with a family-owned company.

Paluckas announced his intention to step down last Thursday, citing intense pressure as the catalyst. Officially tendering his resignation on Monday, he ceded his role, prompting Nauseda to sign a decree affirming Sadzius's temporary leadership until a new cabinet is formed.

Despite the Social Democrat party's expectation to nominate Paluckas's successor, they face a challenging parliamentary landscape. Holding just 52 of 141 seats, their choice must secure majority backing in the upcoming session scheduled for September 10, following the summer recess.

(With inputs from agencies.)