Agenda Profile: Kalle Grünthal
Chair implementation
2025-09-04
15th Riigikogu, extraordinary session of the Riigikogu
Political Position
The political stance is strongly oppositional and anti-government, focusing on demanding constitutionality and adherence to the law. Key issues include opposing the car tax, supporting teachers, and protecting citizens' rights against the arbitrary actions of state authorities (including the police and ministers). The position is strongly procedural and value-based, emphasizing compliance with the principles of the rule of law. Political activity is characterized by defending draft legislation submitted on behalf of the former party (EKRE) after leaving the party.
62 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in legislation and parliamentary procedure, constantly referencing specific sections of the Riigikogu Rules of Procedure and Internal Rules Act (e.g., § 13, § 72, § 95). They employ specialized legal terminology (e.g., presumption of innocence, legal dogmatics, mandatory norm) and demand adherence to the assessments provided by the Legal Analysis Department. Furthermore, the speaker exhibits knowledge of the Penal Code and regulations pertaining to police operations.
62 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is predominantly confrontational, critical, and accusatory, especially directed at the session chairmen (Lauri Hussar, Toomas Kivimägi), who are accused of violating the law and engaging in arbitrary conduct. It employs strong emotional appeals (e.g., "you are playing with fire," "shameful," "stop lying") and frequently addresses the "people of Estonia" directly, stressing that the parliament has been reduced to a laughing stock due to the government's actions. Personal and provocative elements are also present, such as the gifting of a smoked pig's head to the session chairman.
62 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is highly active during Riigikogu sittings, frequently intervening with procedural questions, submitting interpellations, and introducing numerous legislative bills. A notable action was the declaration of a ten-minute solidarity strike in support of teachers. He/She constantly challenges the activities of the Riigikogu Board and its committees, demanding explanations and opportunities to exercise the right to appeal.
62 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the Board of the Riigikogu and the presiding officers of the sessions, who are consistently accused of violating the rules of procedure and internal order, as well as disregarding the law. Government members (including Kristen Michal, Margus Tsahkna) are publicly criticized for lying, deceiving the public, and concluding unconstitutional agreements. The criticism is intense and often personal, accusing opponents of "playing with fire" and displaying "boorish" behavior.
62 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The cooperation style is rather independent and non-compromising, focusing on presenting their own draft legislation and challenging procedural errors. They refused the "exception" offered by the Riigikogu Board when submitting the bill, in order not to be complicit in a violation of the law. They mention cooperation with Jaanus Karilaid and refer to previous appearances on behalf of the EKRE faction, but based on their profile, they primarily operate as a lone fighter.
62 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily on the national level (legislation, the work of the Riigikogu, security). One specific regional reference relates to events that occurred in Võru County (alleged crimes committed by allied soldiers), which prompted a challenge to the international treaty. The Võru County events are also mentioned in relation to police activity.
62 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic platform includes strong opposition to new taxes (such as the car tax) and support for reducing the financial burden on citizens (specifically, halving the basic fees charged by bailiffs). It supports indexing reservists' benefits, arguing that the current daily allowance of 37 euros no longer keeps pace with the rising cost of living. The platform calls for a level playing field in the business sector, criticizing the unfair advantage given to taxis that utilize electronic devices.
62 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
In the social sphere, emphasis is placed on protecting the presumption of innocence by submitting a draft bill to criminalize its violation in the media. [The group] criticizes police activities directed against nationalism (Sinimäed, monuments) and demands that the police oath be changed to include loyalty to the people. It supports the teachers' strike and demands B1-level proficiency in the Estonian language from taxi drivers.
62 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is directed toward the sphere of justice and internal security. The main initiatives include amending the Penal Code (presumption of innocence, false statements by ministers, repeal of § 151¹), changing the police officer's oath, and lowering the fees charged by judicial enforcement officers (bailiffs). Draft bills have also been submitted to amend the National Defence Service Act (benefits for reservists), the Hunting Act (exemption from fees for pensioners), and the Public Transport Act (taxi services).
62 Speeches Analyzed