Agenda Profile: Kalle Grünthal
Inquiry regarding a network of number plate recognition cameras and the associated database (no. 756)
2025-06-09
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to the actions taken by the government and security structures concerning the illegal use of license plate recognition cameras. The speaker emphasizes the principles of the rule of law, asserting that the evidence collected is inadmissible and that the police acted unlawfully according to the Penal Code. The focus is heavily value-based and procedural, criticizing the government's attempts to retroactively legalize the illegal activity.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in matters of criminal procedure, the admissibility of evidence, and the legality of state supervision. He/She employs specific legal terminology and relies on facts, referencing the attorney's inquiries and the clear position of Chancellor of Justice Ülle Madise regarding the system's illegality.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly aggressive, accusatory, and urgent, employing sharp expressions (for instance, describing the government as "flailing" and labeling the prime minister's speech as "mumbo-jumbo"). The speaker relies on logical arguments grounded in legal facts (illegality), but also incorporates emotional appeals, warning against a surveillance society and the practices of the Soviet era.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Insufficient information.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are Prime Minister Kristen Michal, who is accused of giving vague answers, and the law enforcement agencies (the Police and Border Guard Board, the Prosecutor’s Office). The criticism is intense and is based primarily on procedural and legal violations, accusing them of the illegal exercise of state oversight. Compromise is ruled out because they are demanding the initiation of a criminal case against the guilty parties ("a wolf does not prey on a wolf").
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient information
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is at the national level, covering the Estonian legal order, the legislation of the Riigikogu, and the activities of the Police and Border Guard Board (PPA). Specific regional or international topics are not examined.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient information
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker is heavily focused on social issues pertaining to civil liberties and privacy. They express strong opposition to the surveillance state, stressing that illegal monitoring (the collection of photographs of license plates and individuals) is unacceptable and highly reminiscent of the Soviet era.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on adherence to the existing legal framework and preventing the legalization of illicit activities. The speaker opposes the government's initiative to legalize the number identification system, demanding that, prior to this, accountability must be established for the individuals who conducted state oversight illegally.
2 Speeches Analyzed