Lithuanian TV host fined for offensive gesture during protest

Lithuanian TV host Rita Miliūtė has been fined 15 euros for making an offensive gesture during a protest, as reported by the BNS news agency.

According to Julija Samorokovskaja, a representative of the Vilnius County Police, an administrative violation protocol was drawn up for a minor public order offence. Miliūtė was ordered to pay the fine within a specified period, or the case will be examined in administrative court.

Miliūtė confirmed the fine on her Facebook page and stated that she intends to appeal. She clarified that her decision to contest the fine is not due to financial inability but rather a matter of principle. She denied any intention to disrupt public order or the seriousness of the gathered crowd during the protest.

The incident occurred during the “Hands Off Free Speech” protest in Independence Square, where Miliūtė publicly displayed her middle finger. At the time, she criticised the ruling majority for legal illiteracy and lack of competence in governing the state.

Administrative proceedings were initiated in April at the Vilnius 3rd Police Commissariat following the gesture.