Agenda Profile: Aivar Kokk
Draft law amending the Enterprise Income Tax Simplification Act, the Security Tax Act, and the Income Tax Act (645 SE) – First Reading
2025-05-20
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The speaker consistently adopts an anti-tax-hike stance, arguing that both income tax and VAT have risen by 20%, and criticizing the Reform Party’s income tax exemption for high earners. They support reducing government expenditure and downsizing the civil service, stressing that taxpayers cannot afford to maintain 140,000 public sector employees. The speaker presents strong opposition to the current tax policy, going so far as to label it "criminal."
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Shows deep knowledge in the field of tax policy and the state budget, utilizing specific figures such as 550 million euros, 700 million euros, and precise percentages. Demonstrates an understanding of the pension system, specifically inquiring about the tax rates for the withdrawal of the second and third pension pillars. References historical economic data and government performance in detail.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
Employs confrontational and emotional rhetoric, accusing the minister of lying ("that lie coming out of your mouth today") and labeling the policy "absurd" and "criminal." Combining personal attacks with fact-based arguments, the speaker concludes with the dramatic appeal: "Let's stop this nonsense!" The tone is passionate and decidedly oppositional.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participates in parliamentary debates, repeatedly questioning the minister and demanding concrete answers. They refer to their long-standing political experience, citing events dating back to 2011, and demonstrating consistent political engagement across various periods.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
It directs sharp criticism at the Reform Party and the current coalition, accusing them of lying and pursuing misguided policies. The minister is criticized personally, with disappointment expressed over his supposed "courage to tell the truth." The opposition is categorical—it shows no willingness to compromise on tax hikes and demands a complete overhaul of policy.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker positively references the previous cooperation between Isamaa, the Centre Party, and EKRE from 2019 to 2020, emphasizing the positive results their joint decisions yielded for economic growth. They show no readiness to cooperate with the current coalition but acknowledge successful past coalitions. Furthermore, they stress that their party has been consistently fulfilling its election promises since 2011.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Based on the data, there is insufficient information.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
They advocate for lower taxes and reduced government spending, asserting that tax hikes damage economic growth. They support business-friendly policies, pointing to successful economic growth during a period when taxes and excise duties were cut and wage subsidies were provided to businesses. They criticize the expansion of the public sector and demand a reduction in government expenditures by 300–500 million euros.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Expresses concern regarding the plight of pensioners, criticizing the increase in their tax burden and the removal of the income tax exemption for the average pension. It also critically mentions the reduction of benefits for large families. The text emphasizes rising unemployment (60,000 people are seeking work) and the necessity of redirecting public sector employees into private enterprise.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on taxation and state budget legislation, raising detailed questions regarding the taxation of business income and the security tax. The individual clearly operates in the role of an opposition lawmaker, criticizing government bills and demanding precise answers concerning the taxation of pension pillars. Furthermore, the text emphasizes the critical need for transparency in the legislative process.
5 Speeches Analyzed