Session Profile: Madis Kallas
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
2025-02-25
Political Position
The political priority is amending the constitution to prohibit citizens of aggressor states from participating in local government elections. This stance is strongly supportive and value-driven, emphasizing that the voting rights of Putin supporters in Estonia are absolutely unacceptable. This position is motivated by security considerations and the context of the continuing war in Ukraine. The faction supports swift action so that the amendment can take effect as early as this autumn.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of the procedures for amending the constitution and the legislative history, referencing the initiative put forward by 61 members of the Riigikogu and discussions that have lasted for years. It is acknowledged that legal experts and those involved in the drafting of the constitution have highlighted various risks and shortcomings associated with the amendment. The need for thorough discussions is emphasized, even though the political decision has already been made.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal and resolute, yet it includes a powerful emotional and moral appeal tied directly to the feeling of security. A clear juxtaposition is utilized ("a person who voted for Putin yesterday must not be allowed to elect the council in our cities and municipalities tomorrow") to underscore the unacceptability of the situation. The tone is urgent, suggesting the necessity of taking action before the autumn elections.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
There is insufficient data, but the speech points to repeated, thorough, and substantive discussions that took place within the faction and the party regarding the constitutional amendment. This demonstrates active participation in the preparatory phase of the draft bill and in shaping the position.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
A direct confrontation is not stated, but various threats and shortcomings highlighted in the public sphere and media—which have been brought up by esteemed legal experts—are acknowledged. The speaker attempts to proactively address accusations of rushing or of taking a simplified approach.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is compromise-oriented, emphasizing the necessity of broad-based agreements both within the political parties and on the floor of the Parliament. It is noted that the Social Democrats held the majority among the 61 Riigikogu members who initiated the draft legislation, indicating a broad coalition.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on changing the franchise (voting rights) for local government elections (city and rural municipality councils) in Estonia. This local issue, however, is closely tied to international security and the citizenship of aggressor states (Russia and Belarus).
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
There is not enough data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
When addressing social issues, the focus is placed on restricting the voting rights of citizens from aggressor states, framing this restriction as a matter of security and national eligibility. It is stressed that the current constitution permits a controversial situation that requires urgent amendment.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is supporting the draft act on amending the constitution to resolve the conflict concerning the voting rights of citizens of aggressor states in local elections. The parliamentary group is ready to take the necessary steps so that the amendment enters into force in time for the local elections taking place this autumn.
1 Speeches Analyzed