„We formed a joint faction consisting of several political groups: the LVŽS, the KŠS, and two independent politicians. Even before the Seimas elections, we had agreed to work together regardless of party affiliation,“ Ignas Vėgėlė is quoted as saying in the statement.
The parliamentarian notes that last week’s proposal by the LVŽS chairman to withdraw from the faction does not reflect a desire to unite for joint action but, according to him, is driven by narrow political rivalry: „Over time, the faction has become a tool of a single political party: it is difficult to participate in the faction’s activities when decisions are made in bodies in which I have no opportunity to participate.“
„I entered politics to achieve the fundamental goal of changing the political system, to uphold the declared values faithfully, and to vote for such decisions boldly. I have never supported and will never support unfounded decisions in the Seimas, the shift of European values toward the far left, cosying up to the leadership of the World Health Organisation, or the broader surveillance and control of private individuals.
I will remain loyal not to political expediency, but to my conscience, my values, and my constituents. I would urge everyone to do the same,“ Ignas Vėgėlė responded in a statement to the LVŽS chairman’s claims regarding the divergent value orientations of the LVŽS and Vėgėlė.
Ignas Vėgėlė emphasises that consistent adherence to declared values is the true form of political responsibility. He will continue to seek to unite people who value transparency and openness in the political system, respect for our state, democracy, family, and political integrity.
„I am convinced that what Lithuania needs most today is not division or confrontation, but unity and collaboration. Not internal struggles over positions, influence, or interests, but the courage to uphold what was promised to the people before the elections,“ states Vėgėlė.
The Member of Parliament thanks his colleagues in the faction for their substantive discussions and cooperation. According to him, despite the decision made, respect for his colleagues remains.
„I sincerely thank my colleagues in the faction for their humanity and joint efforts. I wish them success in their future work. I hope that respectful communication and cooperation for the sake of Lithuania will remain more important than party interests,“ says Vėgėlė.
In accordance with the Seimas Statute, Ignas Vėgėlė will serve in the mixed group. „All Seimas members who have not chosen a specific faction serve in the mixed group. This group will soon consist of seven parliamentarians and will acquire the status of a full-fledged faction,“ emphasised Ignas Vėgėlė.