Lithuanian Farmers and Greens leader asks two MPs to leave faction

The leader of the Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union (LVŽS), Aurelijus Veryga, has proposed that MPs Ignas Vėgėlė and Rimas Jankūnas leave the party’s parliamentary faction and support the ruling coalition individually, LRT.lt reports.

The proposal was discussed last week in the party’s council and again on Monday in its board meeting. Party officials argued it was illogical for the two MPs to remain in the faction while pursuing separate political agendas.

Jankūnas has become chairman of the Nation and Justice Union, which includes MEP Petras Gražulis, while Vėgėlė has openly expressed plans to form a new party. Both have maintained their own schedules, yet their actions continue to be associated with LVŽS and its faction in the Seimas.

Deputy chair of LVŽS and MP Aušrinė Norkienė confirmed that Veryga had spoken with both politicians. “They must now decide for themselves when to make their announcement. Our position is clear: if they are building their own political structures, we wish them success,” she told LRT.lt.

An unnamed politician from the party added that the situation created “logical inconsistencies,” noting that Jankūnas already leads another party while Vėgėlė has repeatedly stated he no longer represents the majority. “The party asked whether this aligns with logic. We decided to address this politely. If they belong to other forces yet stand under the farmers’ banner, that’s a misunderstanding. Perhaps they should leave and join the coalition majority as individual members,” the source said.

Jankūnas did not answer calls, while Vėgėlė declined to comment, suggesting reporters contact LVŽS leadership. If both MPs leave, the faction will be reduced to nine members.

A meeting of the coalition council is scheduled to address the matter further.