Lithuanian opposition threatens legislative delay if ruling coalition rejects LRT reform proposals

The Lithuanian opposition may again stall parliamentary proceedings if the ruling coalition dismisses amendments to the national broadcaster’s law that were approved by the Culture Committee, conservative MP Vytautas Kernagis warned on Monday, LRT.lt reports.

Speaking ahead of Thursday’s planned debate on revisions to the Law on Lithuanian National Radio and Television (LRT), Kernagis stated that the opposition would not obstruct the process if the government accepts the committee-backed proposals. However, if the ruling parties begin rejecting those amendments, “this could drag on,” he said.

“Kęstutis Vilkauskas [committee chair] and I have discussed this. If they [the ruling coalition] accept in the debate what we’ve already agreed on in committee, then as the opposition, we won’t raise objections and will try to pass the bill as it left the committee,” Kernagis told ELTA. “But if they start rejecting our proposals—which the committee supported—then this could take time. The debate might even spill into Friday, and we’ll register so many amendments that everyone will still be here come autumn.”

The MP expressed hope that such delays, reminiscent of last year’s filibuster tactics, would not be necessary, adding that ruling coalition representatives have indicated they do not intend to prolong the process.

Seimas Speaker Juozas Olekas previously suggested an unscheduled Friday session might be required if Thursday’s debate fails to conclude smoothly. Vilkauskas likewise did not rule out extended discussions, noting the outcome depends on the opposition’s stance.

The proposed amendments, which include establishing an LRT governing board, restructuring its council, and revising grounds for the early dismissal of the director-general, follow criticism from the Venice Commission. The advisory body urged a thorough analysis and clarified that changes to dismissal procedures should apply only to future appointees.

Last December, opposition lawmakers submitted over 150 amendments—many satirical—to delay what they called “hasty and flawed” reforms targeting LRT’s leadership structure. The latest draft incorporates feedback from 15 organisations, citizens, and state institutions, as well as more than 40 legal observations.