Lithuanian Social Democrats to back lifting MP Paluckas’ immunity

The Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP) will support the removal of legal immunity for MP Gintautas Paluckas, party leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius confirmed in an interview with LRT Radio on Sunday.

Sinkevičius stated there was “no other position” within the faction, adding that any failure to back the measure—even by accident—would draw “serious disapproval” and political consequences. “I can assure the public and my political colleagues that there are no secret agreements or behind-the-scenes discussions. The immunity will be lifted,” he said.

When asked whether Paluckas should resign his parliamentary seat, Sinkevičius noted that the decision ultimately rested with the MP himself. “He was elected, so he must decide—not just for himself and his family, but for the political community,” the LSDP leader said, adding that Paluckas currently intends to remain in the Seimas and prove his innocence through legal means.

Sinkevičius compared Paluckas’ approach to that of former Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis, who also faced legal scrutiny while in office, rather than Kęstutis Starkevičius, who resigned as transport minister amid corruption allegations in 2023. “Paluckas sees a path to follow Skvernelis’ example,” Sinkevičius said, emphasising the MP’s stated confidence in his and his wife’s innocence. “He is determined to demonstrate that the prosecutor general’s accusations lack foundation.”