TikTok Video Sparks Official Sanctions Call
On the first working day of the 15th convocation of the Latvian Seym, deputy Pāgor published a video on TikTok speaking in Russian about the agenda of the parliamentary meeting, sparking an official call for sanctions.
The video has since been removed from Pāgor’s account. Copies continue to circulate on social media.
Deputies Take the Oath Amid Controversy
On the same day the video appeared, Pāgor took the solemn oath alongside other deputies and received his parliamentary powers.
According to Speaker of the Seym Edvards Smiltenš and the presidium members, these actions run counter to the constitutional pledge taken by lawmakers to uphold the status of Latvian as the exclusive state tongue.
Constitutional and Ethical Violations Cited
Officials cite a violation of paragraph 18 of the Seym Deputy Ethics Code. Under this provision, lawmakers are mandated to use the national tongue when interacting with each other and the public inside the parliament building, while avoiding any behavior that might diminish its importance.
Smiltenš stated that the Latvian language is the foundation and value of the state, which every Seym deputy must respect, honor, and strengthen. He added that the promise made to the people of Latvia carries deep moral significance alongside its legal weight.
Formal Appeal Seeks Assessment and Penalties
The formal appeal requests an assessment of Pāgor’s actions and the application of sanctions if a violation is established. The authors maintain that deputies must uphold high standards of political culture and reinforce public trust in the parliament.
Leadership Signs the Parliamentary Document
The appeal was prepared by Speaker Edvards Smiltenš, his deputies Ināra Mūrniece of the National Alliance and Raimonds Vējonis of the United List, Seym Secretary Ramona Petraviča of Latvia First, and Deputy Secretary Antonīna Nenaševa of the Progressives.
