Martynas Katelynas considered for Lithuania’s interior minister post

Martynas Katelynas, a politician who previously compared Lithuanian officials to Belarusian OMON forces and advocated for the use of lethal force against irregular migrants, is being considered for the position of Lithuania’s interior minister, reports LRT.lt.

The potential appointment comes as the new government, led by Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP) leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius, finalises its cabinet. Sinkevičius confirmed that the culture minister will change, with current Culture Minister Inga Ruginienė set to take over the Social Security and Labour Ministry.

Katelynas, who entered the Seimas via the LSDP list, previously served as a member of the National Union party. His controversial past includes a 2021 Facebook post questioning how Lithuanian authorities’ actions differed from those of Belarus’s OMON during protests near the Rūdninkai training ground. He also supported proposals to use “force, if necessary—even lethal means—to stop illegal border crossings.” These posts are no longer visible on his profile.

President Gitanas Nausėda’s schedule indicates a meeting with Katelynas on Tuesday at 16:30, further fuelling speculation about his candidacy. Katelynas has not publicly confirmed whether he has received an official offer but previously stated he would consider it if approached.

Trade unions representing officials have emphasised that the issue is not about any individual but the frequent turnover of ministers. Observers suggest that more significant changes may be implemented as the next elections approach.

Katelynas’ political shift from the right-wing National Union to the centre-left LSDP has drawn attention. In 2020, he unsuccessfully ran for parliament with the National Union but later joined the LSDP for the 2023 municipal elections, securing a seat in the Seimas in 2024. He has also been involved in protests against the removal of a plaque commemorating Jonas Noreika-General Vėtra from the Lithuanian Academy of Sciences’ Wroblewski Library, pledging up to €2,000 for its restoration.