Session Profile: Peeter Ernits
15th Riigikogu, 6th sitting, plenary session
2025-09-22
Political Position
The political stance is strongly oppositional, focusing its criticism on the incompetence and lack of transparency displayed by the government (especially Prime Minister Michal) regarding security and state governance issues. The speaker accuses the government of distrusting the public and Parliament and demands honest and prompt reporting on security incidents. He views the government’s recent actions (wage increases) as a forced measure, stemming from a catastrophic lack of public trust and the looming threat of social explosion.
21 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of security procedures (Vaindloo, Russian aircraft, drone trajectories) and details of the legal system, particularly concerning the financial and systemic issues faced by liberal professions (bailiffs and bankruptcy trustees). He highlights specific figures (e.g., bailiff’s fees and state taxes) and refers to the conclusions drawn by the National Audit Office regarding the utilization of Ministry of Defence funds.
21 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is confrontational, using blunt and colloquial phrases ("so idiotic," "you're dawdling," "a complete joke") and personal anecdotes (the visit to Vaindloo, discussing matters with Harry Männil). He employs emotional appeals, accusing the government of arrogance and of labeling critics as "Russian agents," and emphasizes the need to "bring the truth to light."
21 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active in Riigikogu sessions, posing multiple questions to the Prime Minister and ministers in a single day. He/She also mentions recent meetings with the heads of various institutions, held "on their turf" (for instance, the board of the Chamber of Bailiffs and Trustees in Bankruptcy), as well as travel (from Saaremaa aboard the Tõll ferry).
21 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is directed at Prime Minister Kristen Michal and his party (the Reform Party), who stand accused of concealing information, creating uncertainty, and making a mockery of security. The criticism is intense and personal, hinting that the government will soon have to "take a rest" and that their support is "ridiculously low."
21 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Although generally critical, the speaker sincerely praises Prime Minister Michal’s initiative to establish the council of economic advisors, viewing it as a positive step toward involving experts. He/She also supports the proposal put forward by colleague Helmen Kütt (SDE) to bring party leaders together with the Prime Minister for a genuine discussion, emphasizing the critical need for cooperation.
21 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The speaker focuses strongly on regional issues, particularly those concerning Southern Estonia and Tartu, opposing the placement of Swedish criminals in Tartu Prison and mentioning the drone incident in Elva municipality. Furthermore, he/she addresses environmental problems in Ida-Virumaa (the Uikala sludge mounds) and infrastructure issues in Saaremaa (the Tõll ferry).
21 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker supports cutting the state apparatus and saving costs, referencing the Dutch model and the proposal to make a quarter of the officials redundant. He/She is critical of the Ministry of Defence’s handling of large sums of money and the risk of corruption. He/She views public sector salary increases (for teachers, rescuers) as an inevitable step to prevent a social catastrophe.
21 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker emphasizes social insecurity and widespread dissatisfaction (citing the fear of strikes and consumer behavior in stores). Furthermore, he/she sharply opposes the plan to rent the Tartu prison to Swedish criminals, fearing it would damage Tartu's reputation and cause social problems, labeling the potential outcome a "mecca for rapists and murderers."
21 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The speaker's focus is on improving systems and strengthening oversight (e.g., over the activities of bailiffs). He/She is taking on the role of the opposition, criticizing the Minister of the Interior's earlier attempt to introduce the "bill for the criminalization of bad thoughts" and demanding that the wheels of state grind faster when reforming the justice system.
21 Speeches Analyzed