On April 16, the Lithuanian Seimas decided to strip former Prime Minister (2016-2020) and former Speaker of Parliament (2024-2025) Saulius Skvernelis of parliamentary immunity as part of a criminal case regarding alleged bribery,
reports
LRT.
Павялічыць
Saulius Skvernelis. Photo: Dursun Aydemir/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
102 MPs voted for the decision, one was against, and two abstained — which was enough for the decision to be adopted.
According to the Constitution of Lithuania, an MP cannot be held accountable or have their freedom restricted without the consent of parliament. In this case, however, the decision-making procedure was simplified, as Skvernelis himself agreed to the lifting of his immunity.
The investigation against Skvernelis is related to a corruption scheme in the State Plant Protection Service. The case involves alleged bribes totaling over 1 million euros.
It is alleged that between June and November 2025, Skvernelis may have repeatedly received at least 51 thousand euros in cash while holding the position of Speaker of Parliament. The money was allegedly handed over by his then-advisor, who also worked in the relevant service.
Skvernelis is also accused of promising to use his influence to keep the head of the department in his position, influence the consideration of complaints, and staff appointments. Investigators also believe that he may have known about the illegal origin of these funds.
The former Prime Minister and Speaker himself denies the charges and states that he did not participate in negotiations and did not accept bribes.
The investigation generally concerns alleged corruption in the plant protection service, where employees are suspected of issuing phytosanitary certificates for money without proper checks. According to the prosecution, the case may involve an organized group that systematically received bribes.
The case involves about 15 suspects, including former officials and politicians.
Saulius Skvernelis stated in parliament that he is considering renouncing his MP mandate altogether and effectively admitted that his political career might be over. He also noted that defending in such a case requires significant financial expenses.
He emphasized that he wants the immunity lifted to be able to defend himself in court, and emotionally noted that he already considers himself condemned by society after searches were conducted at his home and office.
