Session Profile: Kalle Grünthal
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
2024-05-29
Political Position
The political position heavily focuses on defending the presumption of innocence against media and public condemnation, viewing it as a crucial fundamental right. Furthermore, the speaker expresses strong skepticism regarding the competence of the Riigikogu Finance Committee, accusing them of making decisions detrimental to the state. The emphasis on the role of maturity and life experience in political office is also significant. The speaker's overall approach is strongly values-based and legalistic.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound legal and constitutional expertise by thoroughly addressing the presumption of innocence within the context of criminal proceedings. They employ technical terms such as "statement of fact" and "value judgment" and cite rulings from the European Court of Human Rights and the Supreme Court. Furthermore, they are well-versed in the constitutional commentaries concerning the presidential age requirement.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker's rhetorical style is formal and argumentative, utilizing both legal logic and emotional examples (Marti Kuusik, Kajar Lember) to illustrate the moral and material damage caused by the media. The tone is at times critical and admonishing, particularly when addressing the Riigikogu committees and the media, emphasizing the necessity of sending a clear message to society. He/She also employs figures of speech, such as, "You can kill a fly with a newspaper, and a person too."
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active during plenary sessions, presenting draft legislation and participating in debates, including defending their proposal before the committee. They are prepared to answer questions and also engage in procedural disputes with the presiding officer.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opposition is directed against the uncontrolled activity of the media, which violates the presumption of innocence with unfounded factual claims, and against the incompetence of the Finance Committee. Criticism is also aimed at the Ministry of Justice's position, which considers civil law remedies sufficient. Former President Kersti Kaljulaid is criticized for her demonstrative behavior and lack of apology regarding the Marti Kuusik case.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker attempts to establish common ground by citing examples, including those involving coalition MPs (Siim Kallas), whom the media has unfairly accused, in order to demonstrate the universal necessity of the draft legislation. He asks his colleagues to support the bill or at least send it to the second reading so that it can be further refined. Direct cooperation with other factions is not described.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily on national and legal matters, referencing Estonian laws and international human rights conventions. One specific case near the shore of Lake Peipus is mentioned, but it serves more as an illustrative example of the damage caused by the media.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social topics addressed include the role of maturity and life experience in relation to age restrictions (alcohol, casinos, and running for president). The primary social focus is on protecting the honor and reputation of citizens against false factual claims, emphasizing the presumption of innocence as a fundamental right.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is on amending the Penal Code to criminalize the violation of the presumption of innocence through knowing and unfounded factual allegations. The speaker is the initiator of this draft legislation and strongly urges its support to protect individuals who have been subjected to false factual claims. The bill stipulates a financial penalty or imprisonment for up to one year.
5 Speeches Analyzed