Lithuanian parliament speaker expects new LRT law amendments to pass in May

The speaker of Lithuania’s parliament, Juozas Olekas, expects proposed amendments to the law governing national broadcaster LRT to be adopted in May, though he regrets the debate has become overly heated, LRT reports.

Olekas told Žinių radijas on Wednesday that the draft law must first complete committee review before moving to a plenary vote. “I think we will truly adopt this law in the spring session—perhaps even in May,” he said.

“I only regret that this issue has been so sharply polarised,” Olekas added. “Yes, we may have differing views, but everyone agrees that certain changes to the law are necessary, especially after the State Audit Office’s investigations.”

The speaker warned that the escalating rhetoric risks dividing society. “This is not good. I believe we should focus on presenting arguments. Some will speak for, others against, and then we will make a decision and move forward. Society needs more calm, not confrontational hostility.”

The proposed amendments, drafted by a working group appointed by Olekas, would establish a governing board for LRT, restructure its council, and set new grounds for the early dismissal of its director general. They would also prohibit other media outlets from operating on LRT’s channels or website without council approval, while requiring individuals affiliated with other media to disclose conflicts of interest before participating in LRT content.

The Venice Commission is reviewing the amendments under an expedited procedure. Last week, around 10,000 people joined a protest in Vilnius under the slogan “Hands off free speech! We will not surrender,” opposing the proposed changes.

The new draft follows a failed attempt in December to fast-track different amendments simplifying the dismissal process for LRT’s director general.