Agenda Profile: Kalle Grünthal

Debate on the matter of significant national importance: "E-elections – a threat to democracy."

2024-05-09

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

Political Position
The core political stance is strong opposition to e-voting, asserting that it violates the constitutional principles of equality and secrecy. The individual demands the abolition of e-elections, arguing that they threaten democracy and grant an unfair advantage to those currently in power. This position is heavily grounded in both values and procedure, focusing specifically on the legality and constitutionality of the electoral process.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a profound knowledge of election law and constitutional law, referencing Article 60 of the Constitution and the jurisprudence of the Supreme Court. He/She specializes in analyzing the technical and legal specificities of electoral procedures, particularly concerning identity verification and the possibilities for vote alteration. He/She utilizes this knowledge to submit detailed inquiries to the Electoral Service regarding the technical processes involved.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, urgent, and confrontational, employing powerful metaphors (such as comparing the Reform Party to Aleksandr Matrosov) and direct accusations. It combines formal legal argumentation (citing specific laws and court rulings) with emotional appeals, directly addressing "The Good People of Estonia." The tone is critical and conveys the firm conviction that the opponents are afraid of losing power.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker maintains a sustained pattern of activity focused on challenging e-elections, which involves filing complaints with the Supreme Court and submitting detailed technical inquiries to the Electoral Service. He/She is active in parliamentary debates on issues of significant national importance, seeking to identify legally weak arguments in the actions of opponents.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main adversaries are the Reform Party, who are accused of defending e-voting and disseminating Kremlin talking points, as well as Arne Koitmäe, the head of the Electoral Service. Criticism directed at the Reform Party is political and personal, while the Electoral Service is criticized for procedural deficiencies and providing vague answers regarding the identification of technical election violations. The attacks are intense, and there is no willingness to compromise.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The working style is confrontational towards the coalition but supportive of certain opposition colleagues (Ants Frosch, Varro Vooglaid), whom he publicly praises. He emphasizes the strength of his position and his continued fight for the annulment of e-elections, which suggests a low readiness for cross-party compromise.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is exclusively on national issues, concentrating on Estonia's constitutional electoral principles and the activities of the electoral service.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data

5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient data

5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative and procedural focus is aimed at either the cancellation of e-voting or the amendment of the election law to ensure the uniformity and secrecy of elections. The speaker is an active opponent of the current system, utilizing both court proceedings and Riigikogu debates.

5 Speeches Analyzed