Agenda Profile: Mart Helme
Draft law amending the Rules of Procedure Act of the Riigikogu (552 SE) – first reading
2025-03-12
15th Riigikogu, Fifth Session, Plenary Session
Political Position
The most critical issue is the government's lack of accountability and transparency, coupled with the suppression of the Riigikogu's parliamentary oversight. The speaker strongly objects to the government's modus operandi, which involves concealing materials, failing to appear before committees, and obstructing the work of the National Audit Office. The situation is characterized as the usurpation of power and the country's drift toward becoming a failed state, with a strong emphasis placed on democratic values and the failure of the government's actions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the Riigikogu's Rules of Procedure and the mechanisms of parliamentary control, particularly concerning the work of committees and the attendance of ministers and officials. Special attention is drawn to the difficulties faced by the National Audit Office in obtaining materials from ministries, citing personal experience gained while serving on the special committee on combating corruption. Specific terminology is employed, such as "special committees" and "parliamentary consensus."
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is highly combative, accusatory, and forceful, employing strong emotional appeals and folk wisdom ("where else are you going to get a laugh if you don't make it yourself"). The speaker uses sharp language, accusing opponents of obfuscation and relying on PR tactics, and comparing the situation to Romania or a failed state. The focus is on political drama and moral failure, rather than specific data or facts.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Speeches were delivered during the first reading of the draft law (Bill 552 SE) at the Riigikogu session, which demonstrates active participation in the legislative process. The speaker referenced knowledge regarding the work of the Special Committee on Anti-Corruption and issues concerning the National Audit Office (Riigikontroll), indicating active involvement in the activities of supervisory bodies.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the Reform Party, Kaja Kallas, and certain members of the Riigikogu board. The criticism is extremely intense, focusing on procedural violations (specifically, failure to appear) and personal accusations of usurping power. Compromise is ruled out because the opponents are viewed as incapable of change and destructive to the state, with a warning that they themselves will also face negative consequences in the future.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker fundamentally supports a legislative approach that transcends specific governments and parliamentary compositions, highlighting the universality of draft bill 552 SE, which should remain applicable even under future administrations. However, when it comes to cooperating with the current government, strong hostility is evident, and there is a complete lack of readiness for compromise, given that the government stands accused of deliberately obstructing parliamentary work.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is entirely on the national level, addressing the governance of the Estonian state, the work of the parliament, and the state of democracy. The only international comparison mentioned is with Romania, regarding the government's practice of classifying information.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic viewpoints are indirect, expressing strong opposition to the government's fiscal activities, which are accused of arbitrarily distributing, misappropriating, and stealing funds. This points to a demand for greater financial transparency and control. Specific positions regarding taxes or regulations are not presented.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is the reform of the Riigikogu's rules of procedure, supporting Draft Bill 552 SE (the Draft Act amending the Riigikogu Rules of Procedure and Internal Rules Act). The bill is being supported in order to compel ministers and officials to appear before committees, ensure their access to necessary materials, and improve parliamentary oversight.
2 Speeches Analyzed