Agenda Profile: Rene Kokk
Draft law amending the Alcohol, Tobacco, Fuel and Electricity Excise Tax Act and the Value Added Tax Act (594 SE) – First Reading
2025-05-07
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
A strong opposition stance, focusing on alleviating the cost of living and improving business competitiveness through the reduction of excise duties and VAT. This position is strongly policy- and value-driven, accusing the government of neglecting the people and businesses of Estonia while prioritizing European agendas. They emphasize that tax cuts are a concrete and swift tool for assisting consumers.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates detailed knowledge of excise duty rates (specific euro amounts per 1000 liters/kg/m³) and their recent increases (effective May 1st), providing precise comparisons between the rates applicable at the time the draft legislation was submitted and the currently valid rates. Expert knowledge encompasses border trade dynamics, state budget revenue transfers, and the inaccuracy of ministry forecasts based on Excel models (e.g., the proposed car tax). Furthermore, it is aware of the competitiveness issues facing the transport sector and the non-collection of road usage fees from foreign carriers.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is combative, critical, and insistent, stressing the need for immediate intervention to save the economy. It employs both logical arguments (competitiveness, border trade) and emotional appeals (energy poverty, social justice). It repeatedly levels accusations of demagoguery, hypocrisy, and being out of touch with reality against opponents, referencing the failure of government decisions (the car tax, budget chaos).
14 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Serving as the rapporteur for the draft law, he addresses the Riigikogu from the podium, thoroughly answering questions and defending the bill's substance. He references a previous personal site visit (from Tallinn to Ikla, Latvia) conducted to gauge the extent of cross-border trade, using this evidence to support his political positions.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the Reform Party, Eesti 200, and the Social Democrats (the coalition), who are intensely criticized for the massive tax hike, poor budget management, and ignoring the priorities of Estonian entrepreneurs and the people. The criticism is both policy-based and procedural, accusing government agencies of presenting inaccurate data and politicians of making "Excel-based decisions." Calls are being made for early elections, as the outlook for the current government is "very dark."
14 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
He is seeking support from the opposition and even the coalition, calling the bill a "desperate cry for help" and "an effort to extend a helping hand to the coalition." He positively references previous cooperation during the EKRE, Center Party, and Isamaa government regarding the lowering of excise duties, which brought consumption back to Estonia.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A strong focus on curbing cross-border trade, primarily with Latvia and Lithuania, and improving regional balance. It emphasizes that lowering fuel costs is particularly crucial for residents of rural areas and small settlements who rely on personal transportation. The text also mentions a personal residence in Rapla.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Strongly supports lowering taxes (excise duties, VAT) to stimulate the economy, improve business competitiveness, and alleviate the cost of living. The speaker criticizes the poor oversight of state finances, massive budget transfers (750 million to a billion euros annually), and political decisions (Rail Baltic, wind energy) that result in wasted resources. It is emphasized that the budgetary cost of the tax reduction will be partially offset by economic stimulation and a decrease in cross-border trade.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Criticizes the government's actions, which reduced family benefits while legalizing same-sex marriage, considering this a bad message for young families. Expresses concern over the decrease in Estonia's population and the reliance on foreign workers (Ukrainians, Uzbeks, Filipinos). Emphasizes the importance of alleviating energy poverty for lower-income households.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary priority is the amendment of the Excise Duty and Value Added Tax Act (Draft Law 594 SE) to reduce the tax burden on fuels and energy to the minimum rates permitted by the EU. [The subject] is the initiator and a strong proponent of the draft, emphasizing its rapid entry into force (August 1) and the necessity of requesting specific derogations from the EU in order to get the Estonian economy back on its feet.
14 Speeches Analyzed