Session Profile: Kalle Grünthal
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session.
2024-05-08
Political Position
The political position strongly focuses on the legality of the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament) Rules of Procedure and adherence to procedural norms, sharply opposing the exceeding of committee mandates. The second main focus is national sovereignty and security, which is highlighted in the draft bill amending the police officer's oath, alongside concerns regarding the influence of EU citizens in local elections. The speaker frames their viewpoints strongly based on core values, emphasizing the supremacy of the constitutional order and the will of the people.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker exhibits profound knowledge of the Riigikogu Rules of Procedure and Internal Rules Act and constitutional law, citing specific sections (e.g., § 102 subsection 2 and § 13 subsection 1). Furthermore, he demonstrates semiotic and historical awareness regarding the phrasing and impact of the police officer's oath, explaining the significance of the words "rahvas" (the people), "Eesti Vabariik" (the Republic of Estonia), and "jääda" (to remain).
9 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is predominantly combative, accusatory, and insistent, particularly when addressing violations of procedural rules, demanding intervention from the leadership. Both emotional appeals (e.g., "It is shameful," demanding honesty from Jüri Ratas) and detailed legal references to laws and regulations are employed. One speech concludes with an extremely sharp and vulgar personal attack directed at members of the Riigikogu.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is highly active during the plenary session, making multiple appearances on a single day (May 8, 2024), addressing both procedural matters and introducing draft legislation. These appearances demonstrate intense involvement in specific debates, focusing on obstruction and challenging the legality of proceedings.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Strong opposition is directed at the Riigikogu Board and the committee chairman (Eduard Odinets), who are directly accused of unlawful activity concerning the bundling of amendments. The criticism is primarily procedural and legal, accusing the opposing party of exceeding their authority and disregarding current legislation.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The cooperation style is evident in the support for Helir-Valdor Seeder's proposal to suspend the reading, which points to a readiness to act alongside like-minded colleagues. Overall, however, the speaker’s style is confrontational and demanding, focusing on challenging the actions of the Riigikogu Board and insisting on strict adherence to legality.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The main focus is at the national level (legislation, police, constitutional order) and the international level (EU influence and federalization). There is no regional focus, except for one reference to a man from Võrumaa.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The text addresses social issues within the context of policing and security, emphasizing the necessity of police loyalty to the public and criticizing police conduct during COVID-era demonstrations. It also raises concerns about suffrage, perceiving a threat of Estonians being marginalized due to the influx of EU citizens into local government bodies.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative priority is the initiation of the draft amendment to the Police and Border Guard Act, aimed at restoring loyalty to the people and the Republic of Estonia within the police officer’s oath. A significant focus is also placed on challenging the legality of the current bill’s proceedings, demanding that the reading be suspended due to the committee’s alleged violation of law.
9 Speeches Analyzed