Ethics restrictions on Mindaugas Sinkevičius holding public office expire this week

The one-year restrictions preventing Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP) leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius from being appointed to higher public office, including the position of prime minister, will expire on Wednesday, the Chief Official Ethics Commission (VTEK) has announced.

VTEK imposed the restrictions last year after finding that Sinkevičius, then mayor of Jonava, had violated the Law on the Coordination of Public and Private Interests. The commission determined he had misused his official position for personal gain by submitting municipal expenses for his wife’s phone and two televisions purchased for private use.

Under Lithuanian law, individuals found in breach of ethics regulations are barred for one year from promotion, transfer, or appointment to equivalent or higher positions within their institution or system. VTEK confirmed the restrictions on Sinkevičius would remain in effect until June 10, 2026.

The case originated from a prosecutor’s referral following the Supreme Court’s 2025 dismissal of criminal charges against Sinkevičius. While courts examined the matter under criminal law, VTEK assessed the ethical implications separately.

VTEK member Virginija Aleksejūnė previously stated that the restrictions would block Sinkevičius from becoming prime minister, as the role ranks higher than that of a municipal mayor.