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Aleksejs VidavskisLatvian politician
Date of Birth: 17.09.1943
Country:  Latvia |
Content:
- Early Life and Political Beginnings
- Mayor of Daugavpils
- Political Challenges
- Scandals and Controversy
- Re-Election and Loss
- Member of Parliament
Early Life and Political Beginnings
Viesturs Karnups was born in Daugavpils in 1943 to a working-class family. His early involvement in politics included membership in the Communist Party of Latvia (CPL).
Mayor of Daugavpils
Karnups's tenure as mayor of Daugavpils began in 1987 when he became the chairman of the city's executive committee. In 1991, he was elected chairman of the Daugavpils City Council. In 1994, he was elected mayor, a position he held until 2001.
Political Challenges
Karnups faced various challenges during his time as mayor. Notably, he was the subject of a lawsuit seeking to remove him from office due to his continued membership in the CPL. However, he successfully defended himself in court.
Scandals and Controversy
Karnups's mayoralty was marked by a number of scandals and controversies. One significant incident involved the transfer of $500,000 to a Moscow-based company for fuel by the city's heating network.
Re-Election and Loss
Despite the challenges, Karnups was re-elected as mayor in 1997. However, he lost his bid for re-election in 2001 to Rihards Eigims.
Member of Parliament
Karnups transitioned from local to national politics in 2002 when he was elected as a member of the 8th Saeima (Latvian parliament). He was re-elected to the 9th Saeima in 2006 and served until 2010. Karnups chose not to run for the 10th Saeima.
