LITHUANIA VILNIUS — Prime Minister Gintotas Palakka Resigns
Lithuanian Prime Minister Gintotas Palakka stepped down on Thursday following an investigation into his business dealings, which sparked protests calling for his resignation.
Palakka, who recently took on leadership of the Social Democrats, was appointed to this role late last year after a coalition was formed following the October parliamentary elections in Lithuania. His entire cabinet is also anticipated to resign, potentially leaving the Baltic state without a functioning government just weeks before Russia’s joint military exercises with Belarus.
“Given how scandals are impeding work in government, I feel that our ruling coalition and cabinet cannot be held back by these issues,” Palakka stated in a letter to Social Democrat members. “Thus, I opted for a quick and decisive choice.”
“I don’t cling to my position, so I’m open to various scenarios and decisions,” he added.
President Gitanas Nauseda announced Palakka’s resignation to journalists on Thursday morning.
It’s unlikely that Lithuania’s foreign policy will change with these government shifts. Nauseda, who is elected separately, represents Lithuania on the global stage and is recognized for firmly supporting Ukraine amidst Russian aggression.
Palakka faced scrutiny from a media investigation concerning his business and financial activities. Various media outlets published findings in July regarding allegations against him, bringing attention to past and present issues. Anti-corruption agencies have since initiated their own investigations.
Compounding his troubles, reports revealed that Palakka had not paid a significant portion of a €16,500 (approximately $19,000) fine related to a 2012 criminal case dubbed the “rat poison scandal.”
He was convicted of mishandling the bidding process for Vilnius’ rat extermination services while serving as head of municipal administration. A Lithuanian court ruled in 2012 that he abused his power by unfairly favoring companies that placed the highest bids.
Two years later, although sentenced to prison, the sentence was suspended for a year, meaning he ultimately avoided incarceration.
Leaders within the Social Democrats denied any fraudulent conduct, claiming the allegations were part of a “coordinated attack” from political adversaries.
Palakka’s resignation came ahead of official opposition actions, and new coalition discussions are anticipated to start soon for forming a new cabinet.
