Agenda Profile: Aivar Kokk
Second Reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Motor Vehicle Tax Act and the Traffic Act (694 SE)
2025-11-05
15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political stance is firmly focused on abolishing the motor vehicle tax (MST), promising its repeal in 2027. The speaker vigorously opposes the government's tax hikes (VAT, income tax, excise duties), which, in their estimation, have driven families into poverty and increased the tax burden by nearly 2 billion euros. The focus is value-based and results-oriented, emphasizing the protection of families and the economy. One speaker also raises a technical question regarding the specifics of implementing family benefits.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in tax policy and state budget figures, highlighting specific tax increase percentages (VAT 20%, income tax 10%) and the growth of the overall tax burden. This professional knowledge is also evident in the analysis of the critical situation surrounding infrastructure projects (2+2 roads, Rail Baltica) and road financing, mentioning the necessary sums (2 billion for roads). Furthermore, previous experience as the chairman of the Economic Affairs Committee is referenced.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, urgent, and emotional, employing strong condemnations like "Shame!" and characterizing the situation as embarrassing. The speaker balances emotional appeals (families in poverty, seized accounts) with logical arguments, presenting a wealth of specific data regarding tax increases and infrastructure costs. The tone is sharply critical and accusatory towards the government.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active in the legislative debate in the Riigikogu chamber, participating in the second reading of the motor vehicle tax bill. The speaker refers to a previous role as the chairman of the Economic Affairs Committee, which demonstrates prior involvement in the legislative process.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opposition is aimed at the current government coalition, specifically naming the Reform Party, Eesti 200, and the Social Democrats. The criticism is policy-driven, focusing on the negative economic impact of tax hikes (VAT and excise duties) and the insufficient funding allocated for roads. This opposition is intense and uncompromising, promising to repeal the VAT increase immediately upon taking office.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is no evidence of openness to cooperation or compromise with the coalition, as the government's actions are being called embarrassing and stupid decisions. One speaker is asking for a response regarding a technical detail discussed in the committee, which demonstrates procedural involvement.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is national, while simultaneously stressing the critical need for regional infrastructure, such as 2+2 highways connecting Tallinn, Tartu, Narva, and Ikla. Within the context of Rail Baltica, the Pärnu-Tallinn and Riga routes are mentioned, criticizing Latvia's lack of funding and underscoring the importance of the domestic rail network.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic platform is strongly anti-tax, emphasizing that the tax burden has risen by nearly 2 billion euros over the last two years, thereby pushing people into poverty. They advocate for tax relief for families and demand significant investments in infrastructure, while simultaneously criticizing inefficient spending (for example, the 200 million allocated to public transport). The preferred approach is a tax environment that actively fosters economic growth.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The central social issue is the economic well-being and poverty of families with children, which has been exacerbated by recent tax hikes. It is emphasized that families with three children had 2,400 euros taken away annually, while only 300 euros are being offered back. The question of support for people with special needs is also being raised in connection with the car tax.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The immediate legislative focus is on opposing the motor vehicle tax bill (694 SE) and criticizing the proposed corrections to its existing flaws. The long-term priority is the complete repeal of the MST, a commitment made by the Isamaa Party. Furthermore, attention will be centered on budgetary decisions related to road funding and the construction of Rail Baltica.
3 Speeches Analyzed