Agenda Profile: Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart
Reconsideration of the Motor Vehicle Tax Act (364 UA) left unpromulgated by the President of the Republic
2024-07-15
15th Riigikogu, Extraordinary session of the Riigikogu
Political Position
The anti-car tax position is coupled with a demand to maintain special tax provisions for people with disabilities; it emphasizes constitutionality and the upholding of European Union rights, relying primarily on a value- and rights-based framework. The stance is firmly oppositional to the coalition's intentions, arguing that tax policy should not exacerbate inequality and should instead focus on providing specific support or tax exemptions for disabled individuals. It shows no clear paradigm shift during the period, but rather maintains consistent opposition to the car tax.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Acknowledges strong legal and institutional competence: refers to the Constitution, European Union law, Supreme Court rulings, and commissioned legal analysis; uses precise terminology such as registrar/tax law issues and the principle of equal treatment. It is highlighted that its positions are justified on legal and convention-based grounds.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is a combination of emotional and fact-based elements: cultivated politeness, yet simultaneously sharp and combative. Questions, lists, and references to institutions (the President, the Supreme Court) are utilized, turning the speech into a long and thorough, yet very direct, narrative.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Representatives are regularly shown in action: substantive amendments have been submitted, legal analyses have been conducted, and reference has been made to the activities of the President and the Supreme Court. The focus is on the handling of the draft bill and cooperation with stakeholders; several speeches were given throughout the same day, coupled with persistent opposition to the car tax.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Criticism directed against the coalition, primarily at the level of political and principled assessment. It defends constitutionality and rights, and accuses the coalition and the draft bill of being overly administrative and rushing decisions. The criticism is strong and intense, but they no longer wish to immediately rule out compromise.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Demonstrates readiness for cooperation: references collaboration with stakeholders and the submission of prepared substantive amendment proposals; emphasizes the need to discuss and involve various parties, while simultaneously firmly maintaining its own positions. It shows an understanding that dialogue is important, but only in the context of limited agreements.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly on the problems of rural areas and regional impacts: pointing to the inadequate investment in road construction, the closure of rural schools, and the abolition of free public transport; it emphasizes that the car tax affects rural areas and the people living in the countryside.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic policy is being met with criticism concerning several points: the controversies surrounding the car tax, the elimination of tax exceptions, and the resulting increase in poverty risk. The criticism suggests prioritizing tax relief or special allowances for people with disabilities, large families, and rural areas. Furthermore, it highlights the administrative burden and potential implementation costs, which may not be offset by the revenue generated by the car tax.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
At the core are the rights and equal treatment of people with disabilities; it emphasizes social justice, poverty reduction, and adherence to conventions; and highlights the problems faced by large families and rural areas in the context of poverty and insufficient investment.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Focus is placed on the re-discussion of the Car Tax Law 364 UA and the review of its future amendments. Substantive amendments were presented, and the necessity of retaining tax exceptions for disabled persons is emphasized, referencing the roles of the President and the Supreme Court. A commitment is made to continue resistance and the formal defense of rights, including appeals and litigation.
3 Speeches Analyzed