Agenda Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
Draft law amending the Political Parties Act and the Credit Institutions Act (585 SE) – first reading
2025-03-18
Fifteenth Riigikogu, fifth sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance is strongly opposed to the government's reform and Bill 585 SE, centering on questions of constitutionality and democratic legitimacy. The speaker claims that in Estonia, crucial decisions (including security and financial decisions) are being made by a group that lacks a popular mandate. This position is clearly value-based, emphasizing the violation of rule of law principles and demanding the abolition of the ERJK.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding constitutional procedure, the principles of the rule of law, and the political bias of the Supervisory Committee on Party Financing (ERJK). Specific terminology, such as "constitutional procedure," is used, and the failure of institutions to exercise proper oversight is noted. Particular attention is paid to the political tilt in the ERJK's decision-making processes and the resulting ramifications.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharp, critical, and combative, employing strong emotional appeals and value judgments (e.g., "Estonia is not a state governed by the rule of law"). The speaker focuses on accusations of constitutional violation and political bias, stressing procedural errors and the lack of a mandate. Accusations of political persecution and revenge are utilized.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Participation in the Riigikogu session on March 18, 2025, for the first reading of the bill, is known. Data concerning the frequency or rhythm of other appearances is lacking.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main confrontation is directed at the ruling parties and the government, who are accused of violating the constitution and engaging in political persecution via the ERJK. The criticism is intense, focusing both on procedural violations and the government's lack of legitimacy ("the people's mandate is missing"). The opponents' actions are labeled as threatening the constitution.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The cooperative style indicates a readiness to align with allies, evidenced by an approving reference to the position of another politician (Kert) regarding the abolition of the ERJK. There is no data indicating openness to compromises or cross-party cooperation.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is entirely on the national level, addressing constitutional procedures and the work of central supervisory bodies (ERJK).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are implied; it is mentioned that the government makes significant financial decisions without a popular mandate. Specific positions regarding taxes, regulations, or fiscal discipline are not presented.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
In the context of social issues, there is mention of making value judgments without a mandate, and reference is also made to security decisions. Concrete positions on social topics (e.g., education, immigration, or civil liberties) have not been presented.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on opposing Bill 585 SE (the Act amending the Political Parties Act and the Credit Institutions Act), specifically regarding the granting of new powers to the ERJK. The speaker is acting as an opponent and advocates for the abolition of the ERJK, citing its political bias.
3 Speeches Analyzed