LRT leadership investigation and disciplinary action

The Lithuanian National Radio and Television (LRT) Council faced a potential leadership crisis following a Prosecutor General's Office investigation into the broadcaster’s use of public funds. The investigation concluded that LRT violated principles of accountability and transparency by failing to disclose the names of specific service providers in public reports regarding 2025 program procurement.

Initially, the Council met to consider the dismissal of General Director Mairė Garbačiauskaitė-Budrienė, as new legislation allows for termination in cases of a ‘gross violation of duties’. The Director challenged the allegations, describing the proceedings as ‘unlawful’ and requesting public deliberations.

Ultimately, the Council issued a formal warning to the Director rather than proceeding with dismissal. Council Chairman Mindaugas Jurkynas described the action as a “yellow card,” noting that any similar violation within the next 12 months could lead to contract termination. The decision was not unanimous, with some members abstaining due to concerns that the resolution’s wording contradicted the LRT law and the Labor Code. The Director maintained that her initial non-disclosure was intended to protect service providers from potential claims, characterizing the Council's warning as “psychological pressure.”