Session Profile: Siim Pohlak
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
2024-02-14
Political Position
The most prominent issue is the strong, value-based opposition to the motor vehicle tax, which is deemed an unfair and illogical double tax. The political stance is intensely oppositional, focusing on the government’s (Reform Party) poor budget management and the excessive taxation of the populace. Also crucial is the defense of parliamentary procedures against the government's "steamroller" tactics.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of tax policy and alternatives for budget implementation, differentiating between taxes on vehicle acquisition and ownership, and proposing the taxation of the banking sector's windfall profits. Knowledge was also highlighted regarding the operational procedures of Riigikogu committees and parliamentary customs, which were allegedly disregarded.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, accusatory, and insistent, employing powerful metaphors such as "the government steamroller" and "the silencing of parliament." The appeal targets both the emotions of the populace (calling for protests and "rising up") and economic justice. The government's actions are repeatedly described as "short-sighted, foolish, and unjust."
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speech was delivered during the Riigikogu plenary session as part of the debate on the draft legislation. It was noted that EKRE did not participate in the bill's discussion, neither in the committee nor in the main chamber, as a sign of protest against the parliament's working procedures.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the government and the Reform Party, especially Kaja Kallas and Mart Võrklaev, who are accused of starting with a lie and running the budget into the ground. The criticism is intense, focusing both on the government’s dishonesty and the violation of parliamentary practices through the restriction of opposition rights. A compromise regarding the car tax is completely ruled out.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is focused on the unified opposition and protest of the party (EKRE) against what is happening in parliament. Mention is made of collaboration with various interest groups who have reminded the government of the necessity of the automobile. There is no information available regarding inter-party cooperation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is directed towards rural areas, emphasizing that a car is essential there for managing daily life. This stands in contrast to the government's tax policy, which makes life in rural areas impossible.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are strongly opposed to tax hikes, especially concerning further taxation of ordinary citizens following several previous increases. Support is given to taxing the windfall profits of the banking sector (foreign major banks) as an alternative and fairer measure for balancing the budget. The government is criticized for running the budget into the ground.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among the social issues addressed are the impoverishment of the populace due to rising prices and taxes, and the social necessity of car ownership is emphasized, particularly in rural areas. The public is also urged to engage in mass protests against government policy.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on opposing the proposed Car Tax Act (the bill) and proposing its rejection during the first reading. Furthermore, attention is being paid to criticizing the violation of parliamentary procedure and rules during the legislative process, specifically where the opposition is being denied the right to speak and debate.
2 Speeches Analyzed