Lithuanian protesters condemn Social Democrats: “We cannot trust a single word they say”
A sixth consecutive protest in defence of free speech took place in Vilnius on Saturday, this time moving from the Seimas to the capital’s central Cathedral Square, where speakers delivered sharp criticism of the ruling Social Democrats and their proposed reforms to public broadcaster LRT, LRT.lt reports.
Hundreds gathered under the slogan “Hands off free speech!” as actors, historians, and educators took the stage to voice opposition to what they called an assault on democratic values. Actor Paulius Markevičius, opening the rally, stated: “I am here because what is happening in our country right now is not normal. I cannot be indifferent to what is happening in my own home.”
Publisher and teacher Donatas Puslys framed the protest as a lesson for future generations: “This may be one of the most important lessons I pass on to them, because everything else can be read in textbooks. I am here to personally thank each of you for not giving up, for not letting the bulldozer drivers’ hopes come true.”
Historian Nerijus Šepetys drew parallels with Soviet-era censorship, accusing the government—particularly the Social Democrats and the president—of replacing free speech with “natural or feigned stupidity.” He declared: “Those who set the bulldozer in motion are not just against LRT’s free speech; they are against our free speech, and their own. They do not want it.”
The protest follows ongoing controversy over proposed amendments to the Law on National Radio and Television (LRT), which critics argue would undermine the broadcaster’s independence. Changes under debate include establishing a governing board, expanding the LRT Council, altering dismissal procedures for the director-general, and restricting journalists from other media outlets. Opponents claim the reforms would politicise LRT and erode its editorial freedom.
A symbolic bulldozer, installed near the Seimas earlier this week by the Journalists’ Professional Association and the Cultural Assembly, remains on display as a visual rebuttal to the proposed changes. Organisers urged attendees to bring signs, flags, and banners, emphasising peaceful resistance. Police maintained a presence to prevent provocations.
Protests will continue as parliamentary discussions on the amendments proceed. Organisers have called for sustained public pressure to reject the reforms, framing the struggle as a defence of Lithuania’s democratic institutions.