Paluckas: It is hard to talk about political success without the support of national communities

“There is no negation that in Vilnius the Social Democrats intend to consolidate both various leftist organizations and, as far as we can find a common language, national communities, including Poles and Russians, because Vilnius is a colorful city in terms of nationality and culture,” says the vice-president of the capital, newly elected president of the Social Democratic Party Gintautas Paluckas.

It would be important for the social democrats to attract national minorities, especially in Vilnius. Without providing support for national communities it is difficult to talk about success in elections or pursuing of its policies “, claims  Paluckas.

“These discussions, consultations are just beginning. I admit that during the past ten years they have been insufficient, as indicated by our results in Vilnius, “says the new leader of the Social Democrats.

When asked if the party would be willing to give high places on the electoral lists to representatives of national minorities, Paluckas responds:

“Everything depends on the individuals, but also on values and views on politics in general. Places on the list are not the most important thing. Good people can be in the top ten, even five, I have no problem with that. ”

Speaking of promised changes in the party, Paluckas insists that he will not use “purges”, both voters and district parties expect changes, though. It is the members of the branches who will have a significant voice in staffing decisions.

“On May 6, the party’s assembly will take place, until then everything is going to be clear. From the members of the current board I see in my team Gediminas Kirkilas and Viliya Blinkevičiūtė. Due to their exceptional skills, strategic thinking, public support, their contribution to the new team will be important and significant, while other names will clarify after consulting with the branches that will support one or another candidate”, Paluckas comments.