Lithuanian MEP Sinkevičius vows to resign before 2028 elections

Virginijus Sinkevičius, currently a Member of the European Parliament (MEP), has publicly committed to relinquishing his mandate before the 2028 Lithuanian Seimas (parliamentary) elections.

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My time in Brussels is temporary, and I promise that I will give up my mandate before the (2028 Seimas elections).

Speaking at a party congress, Sinkevičius described his tenure in Brussels as temporary. He assured attendees that he would step down from his European Parliament role before the next national elections, framing this commitment as a testament to his party's integrity and adherence to its word. He highlighted that Democrats distinguish themselves by fulfilling their promises.

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Democrats are distinguished by keeping their word.

Sinkevičius acknowledged that his presence in the European Parliament is significant and necessary, stating that his work there has proven impactful. However, he also noted that his visibility in the European arena sometimes overshadows the efforts of party leaders working within Lithuania. He expressed confidence in the party's current leadership in Vilnius, asserting that they are effectively advancing the party's agenda.

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My presence here, without a doubt, is important, necessary, and I can ensure it.

The politician also touched upon the challenges of taking over leadership following a corruption scandal involving former party leader Saulius Skvernelis, especially given the party's declining approval ratings at the time. Sinkevičius has been serving as the interim leader of the Democrats since April, a position he assumed after Skvernelis suspended his party membership. Notably, Sinkevičius himself is currently implicated in a corruption case involving the State Plant Service, facing suspicions of bribery.

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My presence sometimes creates so much noise that it's louder than, in truth, those who are ultimately in Vilnius, the chairmen of other parties, but not necessarily as visible.