Mykolas Burokevičius, Lithuanian carpenter and politician (b. 1927)

Mykolas Burokevičius, born on October 7, 1927, and passing away on January 20, 2016, was a prominent communist political figure deeply involved in Lithuanian politics during a tumultuous period of the late Soviet era and the re-establishment of Lithuanian independence. His career largely revolved around maintaining the ideological and political ties between the Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic (LSSR) and the central authorities of the Soviet Union.

As the Soviet Union began to unravel and independence movements gained momentum across its republics, significant political realignments occurred. In Lithuania, the Communist Party of Lithuania (LKP) itself underwent a historic split in late 1989. A majority faction, led by Algirdas Brazauskas, declared its independence from the Communist Party of the Soviet Union (CPSU), aligning itself more closely with the burgeoning national aspirations for sovereignty. This independent wing eventually transformed into the Democratic Labour Party of Lithuania (LDDP), a precursor to the modern Social Democratic Party.

In contrast to this independent movement, Mykolas Burokevičius emerged as the leader of a loyalist faction. In early 1990, he established an alternative, pro-CPSU Communist Party of Lithuania, often referred to colloquially as the "Night Party" or the "Platform of the CPSU," due to its clandestine nature and opposition to the mainstream independence movement. He served as the First Secretary of the Central Committee of this pro-Soviet party. This group steadfastly supported the preservation of the Soviet Union and actively resisted Lithuania's efforts to regain its independence, viewing the independent LKP and the Sajūdis movement as separatist and anti-socialist.

Burokevičius held a unique and significant position within the Soviet hierarchy. He was the only Lithuanian ever to serve in the powerful Politburo of the CPSU Central Committee, a role he assumed in 1990 and held until the Politburo itself was effectively dissolved following the failed August 1991 coup attempt in Moscow. This appointment underscored Moscow's trust in his unwavering loyalty and his importance as a figurehead for pro-Soviet forces in Lithuania during a period of immense political instability.

His party played a controversial role during the critical period of Lithuania's struggle for independence, particularly during the tragic January Events of 1991 in Vilnius. While the precise extent of their direct involvement remains a subject of historical debate, the pro-CPSU Communist Party of Lithuania actively called for Soviet intervention to suppress the independence movement. The events, which saw Soviet troops and tanks attack the Vilnius TV Tower and other strategic buildings, resulted in the deaths of 14 unarmed civilians and injuries to hundreds. Following these violent crackdowns and Lithuania's eventual full restoration of independence, the pro-CPSU Communist Party of Lithuania led by Burokevičius was officially banned in August 1991 for its anti-state activities and complicity in the January Events. After years in hiding, Burokevičius was arrested in 1994, tried, and subsequently sentenced to six years in prison in 1999 for his role in the anti-state organizations and other charges related to the January Events, including organizing a military coup.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mykolas Burokevičius

Who was Mykolas Burokevičius?

Mykolas Burokevičius was a Lithuanian communist political leader, notable for leading the pro-Soviet faction of the Communist Party of Lithuania during the country's struggle for independence in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He was also the only Lithuanian to serve in the Politburo of the CPSU Central Committee.

Why did the Communist Party of Lithuania split?

The Communist Party of Lithuania split in late 1989 as Lithuania moved towards independence. The majority faction, led by Algirdas Brazauskas, declared independence from the Communist Party of the Soviet Union (CPSU), aligning with national sovereignty aspirations. Mykolas Burokevičius led the loyalist faction that remained committed to the CPSU and the Soviet Union.

What was the "pro-CPSU Communist Party of Lithuania"?

This was an alternative Communist Party of Lithuania established by Mykolas Burokevičius in early 1990. It was pro-Soviet and opposed Lithuania's independence, often referred to as the "Night Party" or "Platform of the CPSU." It sought to preserve the Lithuanian SSR within the Soviet Union.

What was Mykolas Burokevičius's role in the CPSU Politburo?

Mykolas Burokevičius served as a member of the powerful Politburo of the CPSU Central Committee from 1990 until its ban in 1991. He was the only Lithuanian to achieve this high-ranking position, signifying Moscow's reliance on him as a loyal figure in Lithuania during a period of rising nationalism.

Why was Mykolas Burokevičius's party banned?

The pro-CPSU Communist Party of Lithuania, led by Burokevičius, was banned in August 1991 by the newly independent Lithuanian government. This ban was primarily due to its anti-state activities and its role in opposing Lithuania's independence, including its alleged involvement in the violent January Events of 1991 in Vilnius, where Soviet forces attacked civilians.