Session Profile: Rene Kokk
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting
2024-03-20
Political Position
The speaker adopts a fiercely oppositional stance regarding e-elections, stressing the necessity of honest and uniform electoral processes, and criticizing institutions for ignoring warning signs. Furthermore, they are firmly in favor of abolishing expense compensations, viewing their current use as misuse, and dismissing accusations of populism as malicious rhetoric. The political framework is strongly value-driven and focuses on sharp criticism of the actions of the ruling coalition.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates detailed knowledge of the procedural aspects of the Riigikogu, referencing the readings of draft legislation and the positions taken by the board. They are familiar with the historical details of expense reimbursements, such as the change in the car leasing allowance amount from 450 euros to 650 euros. Furthermore, they use Finland’s position on e-voting as comparative material.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker's style is predominantly confrontational and ironic, exemplified by a joke about the Finnish e-elections and the Reform Party’s victory. They employ emotional appeals (child benefits) and contrast them sharply with the interests of the coalition (more expensive cars). The focus is placed on demanding concrete actions instead of empty rhetoric, urging listeners to "take the bull by the horns."
6 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is very active during the session, repeatedly posing questions to both the rapporteur and the Speaker of the Riigikogu concerning various draft bills. He emphasizes the consistency of his faction (EKRE) and their repeated submission of identically worded bills to the floor of the Riigikogu.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is directed at the government coalition (Reform Party) and the Social Democrats, accusing them of political hypocrisy and misconduct. The criticism is intense, specifically pointing to the withdrawal of child benefits while simultaneously protecting expense compensations for the purpose of personal gain. He/She is skeptical regarding compromise but mentions the possibility of finding consensus if the draft bill is allowed into proceedings.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker is largely oppositional, but attempts to garner support for their draft bill by addressing the Chairman and the Board (Presidium) of the Riigikogu directly. They reference prior quiet lobbying efforts by Reform Party members concerning car leasing, which demonstrates an awareness of behind-the-scenes communication. They stress that responsibility ought to be collectively shared and that consensus is achievable provided the proposals are reasonable.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national institutions and legislation, particularly the integrity of elections and the expenses incurred by Riigikogu members. The regional aspect is absent, apart from the mention that Riigikogu members are able to travel to work from any part of Estonia thanks to the housing compensation they receive.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker supports cutting state expenditures by abolishing the expense allowances for Riigikogu members. He/She criticizes the government’s actions concerning the draft car tax bill and the withdrawal of child benefits from large families.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker emphasized the importance of supporting children and large families, sharply criticizing the coalition's decision to withdraw child benefits. He also referenced the historical actions of the Social Democrats concerning the 'hiding' of alcohol (likely a reference to alcohol policy).
6 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative priorities are the abolition of e-voting and the reform or elimination of the expense compensation system for members of the Riigikogu. The speaker positions themselves as the initiator and supporter of these reforms, demanding that the draft bills be allowed to proceed through the legislative process rather than being immediately rejected.
6 Speeches Analyzed