Former agriculture minister admits taking bribe as corruption investigator hints at wider political network

A former Lithuanian agriculture minister and conservative lawmaker, Kazys Starkevičius, has confessed to accepting a €20,000 bribe, according to an investigation by national broadcaster LRT. The admission follows a broader corruption probe into the State Plant Service, with investigators suggesting the scheme may involve multiple high-ranking politicians.

Starkevičius, who previously served as agriculture minister and suspended his membership in the conservative Homeland Union party, surrendered the cash to authorities and expressed regret. However, he initially refused to provide testimony after searches of his office and home. Legal experts note his confession may be a strategy to secure a reduced sentence—Lithuanian law prescribes up to eight years in prison for bribery of this scale.

The bribe, allegedly delivered in cash last October, was left in a bag at the Seimas (parliament) hotel, avoiding detection during subsequent searches of Starkevičius’ properties. Investigative journalist Tadas Ignatavičius, citing sources, suggested the payment may have been intended to ensnare Starkevičius in a broader network or as a delayed “thank you” for his 2020 appointment of Jurijus Kornijenko to head the Plant Service.

Conservative party leader Laurynas Kasčiūnas called the case “deeply regrettable,” describing Starkevičius as a “serious and professional” politician whose actions were out of character.

Investigator: Scheme extends beyond single agency

Journalist and corruption researcher Skirmantas Malinauskas claimed the network reaches far beyond the Plant Service, implicating “former ministers and party leaders” still active in politics. While not naming names, Malinauskas alleged businessman Danielius Krinickis—a central figure in the scheme—brokered Kornijenko’s appointment with Starkevičius in exchange for payment.

Krinickis, sole owner of the company Infes, is also linked to a separate corruption case in Šiauliai involving Mayor Artūras Visockas. His lawyer declined to comment when asked by LRT whether Krinickis had bribed Starkevičius, stating only: “There will be no comments. Respect yourself and others; we are preparing for a court session.”

The Plant Service probe has already ensnared former Seimas Speaker Saulius Skvernelis, accused of accepting €51,000 in bribes—a charge he denies. Legal analyst Skirmantas Bikelis noted Starkevičius’ confession likely aims to avoid prison, though a custodial sentence remains probable. “His goal is either the minimum penalty or an exceptional ruling—perhaps a fine or suspended sentence,” Bikelis told LRT.

Under Lithuanian law, bribes exceeding €12,500 typically result in 2–8 years’ imprisonment. The investigation continues, with authorities yet to disclose the full scope of the alleged network.