Ombudsman to Resign Amidst Mounting Pressure
High-ranking official steps down following calls for dismissal from parliamentary members.
In a significant development, Latvia’s Ombudsman, Juris Jansons, is set to resign following calls for his dismissal. The decision comes after a letter signed by a substantial number of parliamentarians signaled a loss of confidence in his ability to fulfill his duties. This move casts a spotlight on the expectations of conduct within the institution.
Impending Resignation
The Ombudsman declared he would quit by Monday, responding to a letter requesting his removal. Jansons stated that the situation had become untenable, with 38 members of parliament having already signed a letter. He told the LETA news agency that the resignation announcement could be made independently. The Ombudsman’s Office itself also expressed a lack of confidence in him.
BREAKING: Latvia’s Ombudsman, Juris Jansons, is set to resign after 38 MPs signed a letter calling for his dismissal. More to follow… #Latvia #breakingnews
“I have come to this decision. Waiting until Thursday would be pointless. I will submit my letter of resignation by Monday and resign from my position on Monday, because the Ombudsman can also announce such a decision on his own and it does not even have to be decided on,”
—Juris Jansons, Ombudsman
A recent study shows that public trust in government institutions is declining across Europe, with Latvia experiencing a 5% decrease in the past year (European Public Opinion Survey 2024).
Parliamentary Concerns
The letter, sent to the Presidium of the Saeima, expressed significant concerns from the members of parliament. It was signed by representatives from all 14 factions represented in the 14th Saeima. The MPs indicated that the Ombudsman’s actions had undermined the authority and prestige of the office.
The upcoming resignation marks a critical juncture for the Ombudsman’s institution. The focus now shifts to the selection of a new Ombudsman and how to restore confidence in the office.
