Lithuanian Intelligence Head Removed Amidst Controversy
The dismissal of the head of Lithuania’s intelligence agency, E. Paulavičius, has sparked debate regarding potential workplace issues and the decision-making process. The situation involves conflicting accounts from key figures, necessitating further investigation into the circumstances of the removal.
President’s Perspective
President G. Nausėda stated he observed no problems with E. Paulavičius’s performance during his tenure. The President found the sudden emergence of complaints against Paulavičius in his final weeks of work to be “unnatural.”
“All that time, as far as I worked in various formats with Mr. Paulavičius, whether he would come to present me information to me whether he would attend the meetings of the State Defense Council, presenting the material, or having encountered his activities and learning it from third parties, I never saw any problems.”
—G. Nausėda, President
The President noted that while he was informed of the situation, the details were not clear and required further investigation. Meanwhile, a recent study indicates that 54% of employees report witnessing workplace conflicts that directly impact their job performance (Workplace Statistics, 2024).
The Minister’s Account
National Defense Minister D. Šakalienė cited complaints about employee rights violations as the cause for E. Paulavičius’s removal. She indicated that the situation in the department deteriorated once Paulavičius learned he would not be granted a second term.
Šakalienė mentioned Paulavičius was offered alternate, higher-level duties, which he reportedly declined. She also stated that the decision was made regardless of the investigation’s outcomes and any potential pressure.
Investigation and Future Direction
The Seimas Committee on National Security and Defense met with both Šakalienė and Paulavičius. The committee’s chairman, Giedrimas Jeglinskas, described the versions presented by the parties as “strongly different.” The committee requested related documents from the ministry.
The role of AOTD Director is assigned by the Minister of National Defense. Reports suggest that Mindaugas Mažonas, a former head of Special Operations Forces (SOP), is intended to replace E. Paulavičius.
