The cost of impeachment

  • 2004-03-11
  • Milda Seputyte
Now in its fifth month, the presidential scandal is getting expensive. In fact, it is estimated that, when it finally ends, the impeachment could cost the state approximately 40 million litas (11.6 million euros).

MP Kestutis Glaveckas said that the scandal has already swallowed about 5 million litas, and early presidential elections will require another 16 million litas. "This may start harming the nation's economy and finance," Glaveckas warned.
According to the journalist Arturas Racas, the scandal has had more negative effects on foreign investments than the economy. "Foreign entrepreneurs are hesitating in their investments. They are waiting to see what the outcome of all the uncertainty will be," he said.
Still, many analysts claim that 40 million litas is a good investment in light of the grave threats that governmental corruption pose over the long term.
Others, however, want to see that someone pays. The best option: Rolandas Paksas.
Parliamentary Deputy Chair-man Vytenis Andriukaitis has proposed a new amendment that would deprive any impeached president from receiving social benefits, as well as the right to keep the presidential title. Andriukaitis suggested that an expelled Paksas should not receive presidential pension, accommodation, security or transportation.
"The decision on this amendment will show the disposition of the Seimas. If the president continues to provoke unlawful actions, the Seimas might indeed cancel his social guarantees," said political scientist Lauras Bielinis.
Were it to pass, the controversial proposal would signify a total decrowning of the president, which some claim would be unfair.
"If a person has been elected, no one can erase that fact. Even a person sentenced to prison is not stripped of his previous accomplishments and not excluded from social benefits," said Racas.