Aigars Shkel, the former deputy mayor of Madona, has had his security clearance revoked over a 28-year-old conviction for failing to pay alimony. In a statement to the news agency LETA, Shkel acknowledged that he was convicted by a ruling from the Madona District Court in 1998 but contested the interpretation of his actions as deliberate. He claimed that the circumstances surrounding his financial situation at the time should be taken into account and he has consistently disagreed with the court's ruling on the matter.

The Latvian State Security Service (VDD) confirmed that the conviction remains valid and unchallengeable. This situation highlights the complexities surrounding political figures' accountability in Latvia, particularly with past legal decisions that can impact their ability to hold office or access sensitive information. The case raises questions about the criteria used to assess security clearances and the implications of historical legal issues for current officials.

During the Madona city council's Finance Committee meeting, a decision was made to reduce the number of deputy chairpersons from three to two, in line with current practices. This adjustment in local governance structures might reflect an effort to streamline operations and ensure efficient decision-making within the municipality, further hinting at the ongoing changes in local political practices in Latvia.