Session Profile: Kalle Grünthal
15th Riigikogu, extraordinary session of the Riigikogu
2024-07-29
Political Position
The political position is firmly against the vehicle tax, viewing it as manipulation and unconstitutional because it jeopardizes the preservation of technical cultural heritage. They emphasize the defense of Estonian sovereignty, sharply criticizing the actions of the European Union Affairs Committee (ELAK) as a violation of the rights of the parliamentary plenary session and the use of a "back door." The speaker's framework is both value-based (cultural heritage) and procedural (constitutionality).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates detailed knowledge in the field of technical cultural heritage, highlighting specific museums (Järva-Jaani, LaitseRallyPark) and the number of exhibits (nearly 600). They use specific financial data, calculating the potential tax cost that would arise for the museums (30,000 euros annually). Furthermore, the speaker shows expertise regarding the Riigikogu's (Estonian Parliament) procedural rules and constitutional matters, referencing the preamble of the constitution and Section 65 concerning the decision-making authority of the European Union Affairs Committee (ELAK).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaking style is extremely combative, accusatory, and emotional, using strong expressions like "pure manipulation and deceit" and accusing opponents of "selling their soul to the devil." Alongside logical arguments (the tax cost of museums, constitutional references), many emotional and conspiratorial appeals are employed, describing ELAK's activities as siphoning off state assets through a "back door." It addresses directly the "Good people of Estonia" and President Alar Karis.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The presenter referenced his/her previous active involvement as a member of ELAK during the last session and noted that he/she submitted a legislative initiative (on May 12th last year) aimed at terminating ELAK’s activities. He/She mentioned successful cooperation with 11 Riigikogu members in derailing the WHO treaty. Furthermore, he/she described a public dispute with the Data Protection Inspectorate concerning the disclosure of an official’s phone call, demonstrating a willingness to engage in legal conflicts.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the governing coalition and the leadership of the Riigikogu (Lauri Hussar and his team), who are accused of blocking draft legislation and undermining the rights of the parliamentary plenary session. Criticism is also directed at the former heads of the European Union Affairs Committee (Siim Kallas) and the Minister of Social Affairs (Signe Riisalo). The attacks are intense, ranging from procedural violations to accusations of corruption and personal profiteering.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker detailed successful cooperation in establishing opposition alliances, citing the blocking of the WHO agreement—achieved through collaboration with 11 members of the Riigikogu—as a prime example. This demonstrates the capacity to form resistance coalitions centered on specific issues. There is absolutely no mention of a willingness to compromise or cooperate with the ruling government coalition.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It focuses primarily on national and international policy issues (such as the car tax, ELAK, and the WHO). The regional focus is evident through examples of cultural heritage preservation, specifically mentioning LaitseRallyPark, the Järva-Jaani Car Museum, and the American Beauty event held in Haapsalu.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker is strongly opposed to the car tax, arguing that it imposes significant annual costs (30,000 euros) on cultural heritage preservationists and hobbyists. Deep skepticism is expressed regarding the government’s economic motives, with the suggestion that the implementation of these taxes is linked to schemes involving corruption and personal enrichment. Furthermore, the speaker opposes cuts to social benefits (for disabled people and child allowances).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social issue is the preservation of technical cultural heritage, which is treated as a constitutional obligation. Furthermore, he/she sharply criticizes the government's social policy, referencing Signe Riisalo’s alleged intention to cut benefits for people with disabilities and child allowances.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative priority is blocking the draft car tax law, calling upon members of the Riigikogu and the President to reject it on the grounds that it is unconstitutional. A second key focus is reforming the Riigikogu Rules of Procedure by submitting a bill to terminate the activities of the Committee on European Union Affairs, thereby restoring the decision-making authority of the parliamentary plenary.
3 Speeches Analyzed