Agenda Profile: Heljo Pikhof
A written request for a vote of no confidence in Justice and Digital Minister Liisa-Ly Pakostale, submitted by 42 members of the Riigikogu.
2025-06-12
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political position is strongly oppositional towards the Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, Liisa-Ly Pakosta, focusing on the inefficiency of her activities and the condemnation of her values. The primary political stance involves opposing the weakening of the PPA (Police and Border Guard Board) and expressing concern over the decline in security across Estonia. Criticism is directed both at specific political decisions (Tartu Prison, personnel shortages) and at the Minister's presentation style, which is deemed dishonest. The political framework is heavily results-oriented, emphasizing the deterioration of security.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding internal security personnel and labor market issues, highlighting the fierce competition among the Police and Border Guard Board (PPA), the prison service, and the Tax and Customs Board (MTA). Specific figures are cited (200 missing police officers, hundreds of unfilled posts), and differences in prison maintenance costs are referenced (12 million vs. 20 million). Furthermore, the speaker is knowledgeable about inmate healthcare and the necessity of specialists (psychiatrists, psychologists), referencing Swedish practices.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, critical, and accusatory, focusing on the minister's dishonesty and incompetence. Sharp phrases are used ("outright lie," "a crying shame," "many lies"), and the minister is accused of evading questions and "muddying the waters." The appeals are a blend of emotional concern regarding security and logical arguments based on personnel and cost data.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The patterns of activity are confined to participation in the Riigikogu session on June 12, 2025, where repetitive questions and criticism concerning the Minister of Justice’s actions are presented within the framework of a motion of no confidence. The speaker is an active questioner and critic, presenting their views through several short interventions.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta, who is being sharply criticized both personally (unreliability, evasion of questions, telling lies) and politically (weakening of the PPA [Police and Border Guard Board]). The intensity of the criticism is high, accusing the minister of "many lies" and twisting the positions of former minister Riina Sikkut. No willingness to compromise is being expressed.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speeches focus exclusively on opposition and criticism; there is no data concerning cooperation, compromises, or bipartisan activity.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is clearly aimed at Tartu, addressing the issue of Tartu Prison, the transfer of inmates there, and its impact on local security. Security matters are handled at both the regional (Tartu) and national levels.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
These economic perspectives are primarily manifested in criticism of state spending, specifically questioning the increase in maintenance costs for Tartu Prison from 12 million to 20 million. Furthermore, emphasis is placed on the dynamics of the public sector labor market and the intense competition among internal security agencies.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Regarding social issues, public safety and police work are at the forefront, emphasizing the negative impact that weakening the PPA (Police and Border Guard Board) has on people's sense of security. The aspect of prisoner healthcare is also addressed, highlighting the need for specialists (psychiatrists, psychologists) for the treatment of violent criminals. Ensuring security and the protection of citizens is paramount.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is aimed at opposing the pending draft legislation and administrative changes affecting the Prison Service and the Police and Border Guard Board (PPA). The speaker is a staunch opponent of the reforms initiated by the minister, arguing that they will reduce security and increase the workload of other institutions, specifically the courts and the prosecutor's office.
8 Speeches Analyzed