The speaker of the Lithuanian Seimas, Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen, has expressed her belief that Arvydas Anušauskas, the outgoing Defence Minister, should not be appointed as the chair of the Seimas. This comes after Anušauskas faced criticism for casting suspicion on members of the security committee. Čmilytė-Nielsen argues that electing him as chair would be inappropriate due to these circumstances.

Background and Rationale

Arvydas Anušauskas is a member of the opposition party, Ingrida Šimonytė’s Homeland Union – Lithuanian Christian Democrats. With the recent resignation of Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis, Lithuania is currently undergoing political changes. The nomination for the role of Prime Minister is now open, with Šimonytė considered a leading candidate. In light of this, Čmilytė-Nielsen’s opposition to Anušauskas stems from concerns about his ability to impartially lead the Seimas, considering his previous casting of suspicion on committee members.

As the chair of the Seimas, Anušauskas would play a crucial role in overseeing legislative procedures and managing the work of the parliament. Čmilytė-Nielsen believes that placing someone with a history of suspicions and questioning the integrity of colleagues in such a position would undermine the trust and effectiveness of the Seimas. This call for caution highlights the importance of maintaining transparency, impartiality, and trust within Lithuania’s legislative process.

Summary:

Lithuanian Seimas speaker Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen opposes Arvydas Anušauskas’ appointment as chair of the Seimas.

Anušauskas faced criticism for casting suspicion on members of the security committee.

Čmilytė-Nielsen argues that electing him as chair would be inappropriate given the circumstances.

Concerns arise regarding Anušauskas’ ability to impartially lead the Seimas.

The appointment of Anušauskas as Seimas chair could undermine trust and the effectiveness of the parliament.

Citation: “Čmilytė-Nielsen saugumo komiteto vadu negali būti Anušauskas, padariusio įtarimą – Seimo vadovė” (Delfi.lt)