The Russian/Ukrainian crisis strengthened the government coalition parties in a country where Russian military manœuvres are the source of major concern. The conflict has rekindled Latvian fear about Moscow's intentions on the Baltic States and security issues formed the heart of the electoral debates. The war in Ukraine played a vital role in the electoral campaign. Turnout totalled 58.83% this is the lowest turnout since Latvia regained its independence in 1991. Two other parties have made their entry into the Latvian parliament: No sirds Latvijai created by Inguna Sudraba (a former State auditor who is fighting corruption) in January - with 6.88% of the vote and 7 seats as well as the Regions Alliance (Latvijas Regionu Apvieniba, LRA) with 6.55% and 8 seats. It came out ahead of the other outgoing government coalition member, the National Alliance (an alliance of the Union for the Homeland and Freedom (TB/LNNK) led by Gaidis Berzins, and of the far right party All for Latvia (VL), led by Ratvis Dzintars), which won 16.57% and 17 seats (+ 3). The Green and Farmers' Union (ZZS), a member of the outgoing government chaired by Raimonds Vejonis made good progress winning 19.62% of the vote and 21 seats (an additional 8). Unity (Vienotiba, V), the main outgoing government coalition party took 2nd place with 21.76% of the vote and 23 seats (+3). 7 seats less in comparison with the previous election on 17th September 2011. ![]() ![]() Harmony Centre (SC) won the general elections that took place in Latvia on 4th October but the party led by the Mayor of Riga, Nils Usakovs who was standing for the first time without his socialist partner achieved a lower score that the one forecast in the polls: 23.13% of the vote and 24 of the 100 seats in the Saeima (Parliament), i.e.
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