Agenda Profile: Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart
Draft law amending the simplified taxation act for entrepreneurs and the income tax act, and repealing the security tax act – second reading
2025-06-11
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
A representative of the Centre Party is shaping a strong opposition stance regarding the government's tax package, stressing that the tax hikes will be permanent and will primarily burden middle and low-income families. He demands that the draft bill be amended or withdrawn and that the government be held accountable, emphasizing the need to listen to the voice of the people and protect democratic principles.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates knowledge of tax policy and consumer impact (VAT, income tax, inflation). References the explanatory memorandum, uses specific examples and figures (e.g., an income of 1200 euros, the problem of making ends meet arising at the end or middle of the month), and mentions the long-term effect of tax changes on final consumer consumption.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker employs a combative and emotional style, featuring accusations, criticism, and addressing what the public calls "lies" and a "tax festival." The texts contain direct appeals to the people, delivered in a confident and somewhat dramatic tone, which blends the emphasis on facts with highlighting the impact on the populace.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The subject repeatedly participates in plenary sessions and delivers public speeches; they note that two speeches took place on the same day and highlight the long-standing criticism that has occurred. The date of the next public action (June 18) in the Riigikogu is noted, emphasizing the ongoing opposition activity and the involvement of the public through protest.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary adversary is the government's tax policy; it stands against tax hikes, demanding their repeal and calling for the government to be held accountable. The intensity is high, and the rhetoric centers on systemic failures and the erosion of public trust, rather than compromise.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
It does not clearly commit to cooperation with other political parties or joining any coalition; instead, it stresses opposition and the fight against the government. There is no clear indication of continued collaboration or specific joint proposals.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
National focus; specific regional areas or regional projects are lacking. The text concentrates on national-level tax policy and the populace.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economically optimistic: the speech emphasizes that tax increases disproportionately harm low- and middle-income families, while inflation drives up the cost of living. It opposes the tax policy and calls for the reversal of the tax hikes, stressing the protection of consumer and societal welfare, rather than simply implementing another form of redistribution. The critique is delivered through the metaphor of the "Tax Festival"; it advocates instead for a more stable and consumer-favorable approach.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It emphasizes social vulnerability: the livelihood problems of families, families with children, youth, and pensioners, and the decline of their sense of security. It criticizes the social damage and increase in poverty when viewing the broader picture, and stresses the inclusion of the populace and hearing their voice for the sake of social stability.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The core value is the demand for the successful adoption of Bill 645 SE during its second reading and the cancellation or modification of tax amendments. Physically, the focus is on monitoring the process and listening to the voice of the people in front of the Riigikogu, emphasizing parliamentary accountability and the lack of a mandate as the main justification for opposition.
2 Speeches Analyzed