Former PM's advisor faces lawsuit over alleged unjust enrichment

Prosecutors in Lithuania have initiated a civil lawsuit against Svetlana Tučka, a member of the Palanga city council and a social democrat, alleging unjust enrichment. The Klaipėda District Court is currently examining the case, which centers on claims that Tučka improperly received over 6,600 euros from the municipality.

The core of the prosecution's argument is that Tučka allegedly purchased fuel outside the Palanga region and then submitted these expenses to the municipality for reimbursement. Prosecutors contend that these funds were obtained without proper justification, leading to the civil claim.

During her term from 2019 to 2023, the municipality compensated Tučka for over 12,000 euros, with a significant portion allocated for transportation and fuel costs. Tučka, however, maintains that her fuel purchases were necessary for her work as a council member, which involved travel between Vilnius and Palanga for meetings and other official duties.

She further argues that her actions are in line with the law governing the work of council members, which permits travel for official purposes and provides for compensation. The case highlights a dispute over the interpretation and application of regulations concerning council members' expenses.