A. Bilotaitė disclosed in court that she used her authority as Minister of the Interior to involve VST forces in managing riots near the Lithuanian Parliament.
In a court session on Wednesday, A. Bilotaitė, the former Minister of the Interior, confirmed her decision to deploy the State Security Department (VST) forces to address the riots occurring near the Lithuanian Parliament. This statement was made during the appellate review of the case concerning the riots, where she explained that she exercised her authority, granted by legislation allowing the interior minister to call upon VST assistance. Bilotaitė clarified that she contacted the then-head of VST, Ričardas Pocius, to report the disturbances and the need for reinforcements.
Bilotaitė, who served as the Minister of the Interior in 2021, emphasized the gravity of the situation on August 10 when information regarding blockades of exits from the Parliament was received. She articulated her rationale for involving the VST, reflecting on the pressures and challenges faced by law enforcement during times of unrest. Her decision illustrates the necessary response mechanisms for government officials during crises, particularly those that threaten public safety and order.
The implications of Bilotaitė's decision are significant not only in the context of her political career but also for how crises are managed at higher governmental levels in Lithuania. This incident underlines the importance of legal frameworks that empower officials to take immediate action in response to public disturbances, highlighting the balance between maintaining civil order and addressing citizen grievances effectively.
