Lithuanian election commission to assess Baranov’s candidacy amid constitutional concerns

The Central Electoral Commission of Lithuania (VRK) will evaluate whether Ruslanas Baranovas, an incumbent member of the Seimas (parliament), can be registered as a candidate in a by-election, following his nomination by the Social Democratic Party in the Nalšia Northern constituency.

The move has drawn sharp criticism from legal experts, including former Constitutional Court judge Egidijus Kūris, who called it an absurd and deceptive manoeuvre. Baranovas, already sworn in as a Seimas member nearly two years ago, would effectively seek re-election under the party’s plan.

“This is sheer nonsense. We’ll see how it unfolds, but I believe the VRK will have a headache justifying a rejection—and they should reject it,” Kūris told LRT. He emphasised that the Constitution is not written for “tricksters” but for honest people, and that public law, unlike private law, does not operate on the principle of “what is not forbidden is allowed.”

Social Democrats defend their decision, arguing that no laws explicitly prohibit it. Legal scholar Tomas Chochrinas noted that the Constitution is a concise framework, not an exhaustive manual, and cannot cover every possible scenario.

Baranovas, who has family roots in the Ignalina district, stated that local party members supported his candidacy, believing he could address regional issues. However, Kūris stressed that a Seimas member represents the nation, not a specific constituency, under the Constitution.

Critics argue the move could mislead voters, as a vote for Baranovas would effectively benefit another Social Democrat on the party list, Tadas Vinokuras. Baranovas dismissed concerns, stating he was not a “superstar” whose inclusion would guarantee victory.

VRK Chair Lina Petronienė acknowledged the lack of explicit legal prohibitions but said the commission would review Constitutional Court rulings and broader interpretations of parliamentary mandates before deciding.

The by-election follows the unexpected death of Jevgenijus Šuklinas, the previously elected representative for the constituency.