Session Profile: Kalle Grünthal
15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary session
2024-11-14
Political Position
The political focus is on the repeal of Section 151¹ of the Penal Code, as, in his view, it has been repeatedly abused by the police against Estonian nationalists and patriots. The stance is strongly value-based, emphasizing the violation of the principles of the rule of law and the suppression of national sentiment. He sharply criticizes key government figures and the actions of the police, which, in his estimation, have turned into a political police force.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a thorough knowledge of criminal law, particularly regarding the elements and application of § 151¹ of the Penal Code (KarS), as well as police procedural principles. He employs legal terminology (corpus delicti/elements of the offense, misdemeanor proceedings, semiotic expertise) and cites the opinions of leading legal experts (Carri Ginter) to substantiate claims of the norm’s abuse. Furthermore, he references the Patent Office license concerning the symbolism of the Estonian Legion Friends Club.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, emotional, and accusatory, employing sharp language (shameful, humiliating, repression) directed at the police and the government. It relies on specific and detailed case analyses (Lihula, Sinimäed) and personal appraisals to underscore the gravity of the situation. It presents its positions as a blend of logical-legal arguments and emotional appeals, urging colleagues to support national sentiments.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of action centers on legislative initiative, serving as the proponent and advocate for the draft amendment to the Penal Code (KarS) within the Riigikogu chamber. He/She has undertaken explanatory work related to the incidents, citing the bill's explanatory memorandum and previous questions posed to the Minister of the Interior.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are key government figures (Minister of the Interior Lauri Läänemets, Prime Minister Kristen Michal) and the police leadership, who are accused of establishing a political police force and grossly violating established norms. Criticism is also aimed at Riigikogu member Andre Hanimägi, who is accused of legal illiteracy and trampling on the memory of national heroes. The attacks are intense, accusing the opponents of being anti-nationalist.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is tied to specific event locations in Estonia that are significant from the perspective of national memory, such as Sinimäed (Ida-Viru County) and Lihula (Lääne County). Also mentioned is the removal of foreign visitors at Sinimäed, which gave the event the dimension of an international incident.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
A strong emphasis is placed on protecting Estonian nationalism and patriots from state repression, especially concerning the memory of soldiers who fought for Estonian freedom. He/She criticizes police actions that desecrate this memory and incite hatred between different ethnic groups in society. He/She defends civil liberties against the police's over-regulating and humiliating interference.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on initiating a draft bill to repeal Section 151¹ ("Supporting and justifying an international crime") of the Penal Code. The objective is to eliminate a provision that is incompatible with the rule of law and is being used for political repression, and the initiator requests support for sending the draft bill to the second reading.
5 Speeches Analyzed