Session Profile: Mart Helme
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
2025-03-10
Political Position
The most glaring issue is the bankruptcy and financial mismanagement of state-owned enterprises (Nordica, Estonian Air), which is being framed as corruption and outright theft. The speaker takes a firm stand against the government's lack of accountability and inability to act, demanding a comprehensive investigation into the disappearance of taxpayer funds. The political stance is strongly focused on results and values, highlighting the absence of responsibility and integrity. They warn that, due to poor decisions, Estonia is rapidly heading toward becoming a failed state.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates thorough knowledge of the Nordica and Estonian Air cases, citing his previous work as chairman of the special committee against corruption. He is familiar with the specific details, such as the funneling of money through subsidiaries and the 30 million euro subsidy, and criticizes the failure of the business plans (cargo transport, subcontracting). He refers to earlier discussions held with representatives of the National Audit Office and the ministry.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is extremely combative, accusatory, and emotional, employing irony and sarcasm (e.g., the infectious laughter in the hall). The speaker uses strong and colorful expressions (e.g., "stinks of theft," "thief governments") and appeals directly to moral outrage. He uses rhetorical questions and references (e.g., Krylov's fable, Marco Rubio) to illustrate his points, focusing on accusations rather than detailed data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker previously served as the active chairman of the special committee against corruption, where he repeatedly discussed the issues concerning Nordica and Estonian Air with representatives from the National Audit Office and the ministry. In the current session, he is an active participant, demanding additional time to continue the debate.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the Reform Party, which is accused of decades of subjugating Estonia, theft, and running state-owned enterprises into the ground. The Social Democrats are being called the new scapegoats and accomplices in the government’s massive screw-up. The criticism is intense, personal, and morally damning, accusing opponents of criminal embezzlement and a complete lack of accountability.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker references prior coalition experience, noting that the decision regarding the 30 million support was reached "following heated debates," demonstrating an ability to make decisions despite internal tensions. In the current situation, he supports the investigative work being done by his Center Party colleague, but his overall tone remains confrontational and uncompromising, demanding that opponents back the investigative committee to clear up any suspicions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is heavily placed on national issues and the holistic governance of the Estonian state, particularly concerning state-owned enterprises and finance. A specific need is mentioned to secure direct flights from Estonia to Brussels, which underscores Estonia's international connectivity and strategic interests.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic views center heavily on protecting taxpayer money and condemning the inefficient and corrupt management of state-owned enterprises. The speaker stresses that state funds are, in reality, taxpayer money, and criticizes governments for successful embezzlement. He opposes the financial fraud and negligence that led to the bankruptcy of Estonian Air and Nordica.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is supporting the bill to form an investigative committee aimed at clarifying the circumstances surrounding the bankruptcy of Estonian Air and Nordica, as well as the disappearance of the funds. The speaker is a strong proponent of this initiative, demanding full transparency and accountability.
2 Speeches Analyzed