Lithuanian MEP Hopes for Skvernelis Acquittal, Urges Political Self-Assessment

Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen, a Member of the European Parliament, has voiced her hope for the acquittal of former Lithuanian Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis, emphasizing the need for an objective legal process to address lingering questions. The community, she noted, remains somewhat confused and uncertain about the final outcome of the proceedings.

Čmilytė-Nielsen stated that if Skvernelis is acquitted, he will then need to independently assess his future in politics. She referenced past statements from Skvernelis suggesting a potential end to his political career, contrasting them with more recent remarks. She advised setting aside emotions and awaiting the conclusion of the trial before any self-evaluation of his political path.

The Democratic Union "For Lithuania," founded in January 2022, saw its core members emerge from politicians who left the Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union faction in the Seimas. Skvernelis led the party since its inception but stepped down from his leadership role and the party following the initiation of a pre-trial investigation into a corruption case involving the State Plant Service. He faces accusations of bribery and is subject to electronic monitoring.

Čmilytė-Nielsen clarified that the party is not solely Skvernelis's creation, with over four thousand founders. She asserted it would never become her party either, maintaining it has never been and will never be a one-person party. She observed the party community rallying together during this challenging period, from leadership levels down to local branches.

She believes the primary task for her political group now is to regain public trust, which has significantly declined in Lithuania. Čmilytė-Nielsen noted that politics in general is facing numerous trials, devaluing the reputation of politicians and making it difficult to attract strong individuals. Following the 2024 parliamentary elections, the Democratic Union "For Lithuania" secured 14 seats in parliament.