Session Profile: Mart Helme
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting
2024-03-20
Political Position
The central theme is the strong opposition to the e-voting system, which is deemed unconstitutional and has transformed Estonia into a "mafia state." The second priority is the abolition of expense compensations for the Riigikogu (Parliament), regarding which a draft bill has already been submitted. The political framework is strongly value-based and performance-driven, highlighting the continuous resentment caused by the government among a broad segment of the population. The speaker claims that the current coalition was artificially engineered to suppress any form of dissent.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates thoroughness regarding the technical and legal shortcomings of e-voting, addressing encryption systems, the absence of observer keys, and the obsolescence of protocols. Repeated references are made to Supreme Court decisions that have highlighted legislative gaps and the unlawful delegation of authority to the electoral commission. The opinions of specialists and observers are utilized to emphasize the system's lack of oversight.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is extremely confrontational, emotional, and accusatory, utilizing strong labels such as "mafioso state" and "idiots." The appeals are rather emotional and philosophical, referencing historical traditions and political-technological dosing. Irony and sarcasm are employed (e.g., the Supreme Court expressing itself "half-fartingly"), as well as direct personal attacks aimed at opponents.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Speeches were delivered during the Riigikogu plenary session, focusing on two specific draft bills (e-voting and expense reimbursements). The speaker noted the emptiness of the chamber, suggesting a low level of interest in the issues he/she raised. The speaker represents the views of the EKRE faction and actively participates in debates, including asking personal questions of other MPs.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the governing coalition, especially the Reform Party, who are accused of malice, sneering, and taunting. Criticism is aimed at both policy (e-elections, expense reimbursements) and procedures (the delegation of legislative power to officials). The confrontation is intense, with claims that the Supreme Court, the Chancellor of Justice, and the justice system are resisting changes to e-elections, thereby supporting a "mafia state."
9 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is no willingness to cooperate with the ruling parties; the speaker represents the positions of the EKRE faction and is strongly in opposition. Regarding the draft bill on expense compensations, an opportunity is offered to process it and find a solution, but the overall tone is hostile and accusatory, particularly directed at the Reform Party.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily on national and constitutional issues, such as the legitimacy of the electoral system and the operational procedures of the Riigikogu. There is no regional or local focus, but an international comparison is drawn with the Russian electoral system, which is considered fundamentally similar to the one used in Estonia.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
There are no direct economic policy positions. However, it is stressed that the government has caused continuous resentment among various socio-economic groups, such as drivers, large families, farmers, and pensioners, citing concern over the situation of these groups.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There are no direct positions stated regarding classical social issues. The speaker expresses concern that Estonia has been turned into an "ideological testing laboratory" where attempts are being made to brainwash and suppress people, which points to worry about the suppression of civil liberties and dissent.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative priorities are either suspending the e-voting system or bringing it into compliance with the constitution, and abolishing the expense accounts for the Riigikogu. The speaker is acting as the initiator (on behalf of the EKRE faction) in submitting the expense compensation bill and supporting the e-voting bill, both of which are intended to change the current order.
9 Speeches Analyzed