The presidential campaign in Lithuania officially kicks off on November 12, according to reports from TASS. The agency notes that the race is set in motion six months ahead of the vote by decision of the country’s election commission.
In a statement from the Central Election Commission of Lithuania, parties will be allowed to register their candidates with the election authority. The schedule also opens the door for self-nominated entries. The elections are slated for May 12, 2024, with a runoff likely if no candidate secures a majority of votes, potentially on May 26.
Given that Lithuania operates as a parliamentary republic, the president’s powers are notably constrained. At present, four individuals are mentioned as contenders: Valdas Tutkus, a retired lieutenant general and former commander of the Lithuanian army; Mantas Varaska, the mayor of Kazlu Ruda; Aurelijus Veriga, a former health minister; and Ingrida Šimonytė, the current prime minister. The incumbent president, Gitanas Nausėda, also has the option to participate in the race, though no formal position has been announced.
There have been discussions about the president’s standing in public surveys, with some recent ratings reflecting shifts as political affiliations change and new party alignments emerge in the lead up to the vote.