Session Profile: Aivar Kokk
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
2025-04-08
Political Position
The speaker takes a very strong position against the car tax, labeling it "extremely foolish and unjust," and demanding its retroactive repeal. They criticize the governing coalition for breaking their election promises, specifically citing the Reform Party and Eesti 200, who had pledged not to implement a car tax. The speaker advocates for reducing the tax burden and cutting state expenditures rather than resorting to tax hikes.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Shows thorough knowledge of tax policy, citing specific examples of the impact of the car tax (875 euros for a family with six children, 864 euros for the parent of a disabled child). Demonstrates expert knowledge of the state budget structure, mentioning the 8% carryover funds and the allocation of resources among ministries. Uses precise figures regarding economic indicators and tax revenues.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
Uses emotionally charged and direct rhetoric, calling the car tax a "scam" and "the culmination of all mistakes." It relies heavily on concrete examples and personal stories (a family with six children, a single parent raising a child in a wheelchair). It combines fact-based arguments with emotional appeals, also employing irony and sarcasm to criticize the government.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The text highlights active participation in the Finance Committee, noting the discussions held yesterday and today with ministers regarding budget residuals. They regularly attend plenary sessions, demonstrating consistent engagement with tax and budgetary issues. Their political activity in Tartu, particularly concerning the local elections, is also mentioned.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Levies sharp criticism against the government coalition, particularly the Reform Party and Eesti 200, accusing them of breaking their election promises. It also criticizes the management of Elering for its energy policy. The statement emphasizes the consistency of the Isamaa party in fulfilling its campaign pledges, contrasting this with the current coalition.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
He/She calls upon other members of the Riigikogu to "decide boldly" and "think for themselves," referencing potential cooperation on abolishing the car tax. They positively mention members of other parties who have stood against the car tax. This demonstrates an openness to constructive cooperation, provided it supports their political goals.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The text strongly emphasizes the problems facing rural areas, highlighting the complete lack and extreme sparsity of public transport in the countryside. Specific regions such as Võru, Põlva, Saaremaa, and Harjumaa are mentioned. It criticizes policies that discriminate against rural residents, for whom a car is often the only viable means of transportation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
It strongly supports reducing the tax burden and cutting government spending to stimulate economic growth. It criticizes tax increases during an economic downturn, stressing that they damage business activity and consumer spending. It advocates for investments and the creation of new job opportunities instead of raising taxes. Furthermore, it expresses concern over inflation and the decline in purchasing power.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It focuses heavily on supporting families, particularly those with many children, and people with disabilities. It criticizes the disproportionate impact of the car tax on vulnerable groups, citing specific examples. It emphasizes the importance of funding sports and culture, mentioning the need for shooting ranges, sports halls, and music schools.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
They are presenting a specific draft bill to repeal the car tax, effective retroactively from January 1st. They are actively engaged in budget and tax legislation, serving on the Finance Committee. They criticize the government's legislative initiatives and demand a more thorough analysis of the laws' potential effects before their adoption.
2 Speeches Analyzed