Agenda Profile: Andre Hanimägi

Draft law amending the Courts Act and, in consequence thereof, amending other laws (to improve the administration of courts) – first reading

2025-05-13

15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session

Political Position
The core position is one of strong opposition to reducing political accountability in matters of court administration, particularly concerning budget and regional decisions. It is stressed that politicians should not shirk responsibility (for example, for closing courthouses) by pushing it onto the shoulders of judges. This stance is clearly rooted in policy and accountability, demanding the preservation of political levers.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speakers demonstrate expertise concerning the amendments to the Courts Administration Act (632 SE) and budgetary processes. They clearly distinguish administration from adjudication and understand the role of political agreements in shaping the budget. Specific terminology, such as "political levers," is employed, and reference is made to the Justice and Digital Minister's previous role as a mediator.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is analytical, serious, and interrogative, directed straight at the minister. The appeals are primarily logical, focusing on procedural risks and consequences (the shifting of responsibility, the complexity of securing the budget). The speakers use the form of a question to express their concern, thereby emphasizing the significance of the political role.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
No data available

2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism targets the system established by draft bill 632 SE, a system that allows politicians to evade accountability and transform crucial decisions into seemingly non-political matters. This opposition is rooted in both policy and procedure, centering on the erosion of the political role in governance.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
No data available

2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
There is a strong regional focus, highlighting concerns over the closure of courthouses amid tight budgetary constraints. The objective is to ensure the preservation of law and justice in the counties and to protect regional policy interests, which have a very strong impact on regional areas.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic concerns focus on budget and funding issues, particularly in the context of tight budgetary constraints. Concern is expressed that the loss of a political intermediary will make securing the courts' budget more difficult, as political agreements are crucial when dealing with the budget.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is the accessibility of justice in regional areas. This is linked to maintaining courthouses in the counties to ensure law and fairness at the local level, thereby preventing the centralization of services.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Legislative attention is centered on Draft Bill 632 SE (streamlining court administration), which involves amending the Courts Act. The speakers are acting as critical questioners, seeking to maintain the political control of the Riigikogu and the minister over the administration and budget of the courts.

2 Speeches Analyzed