Session Profile: Kersti Sarapuu

15th Riigikogu, 4th sitting, plenary session

2024-09-25

Political Position
The political position focuses on providing procedural support for the appointment of the National Audit Office auditor. The stance is strongly supportive of the consensus decision reached by the Finance Committee, which is based on the results of the procurement procedure, specifically the cost of the tender and the auditors' prior experience. The framework is clearly policy- and procedure-based, emphasizing adherence to the law (National Audit Office Act, Section 5).

3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates deep expertise in the fields of auditing, financial consulting, and State Audit Office legislation. Technical terms and standards are used (e.g., "Big 4," "ISQM," "sworn auditors," International Standard on Auditing E 200). Detailed data is presented concerning the selected firm's license date, team size, and the prior experience of the lead auditor (Kadri Koop).

3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, factual, and procedural, which suits the role of the presenter. The speaker relies primarily on logical arguments and concrete facts (such as statutory provisions, dates, and standards) to establish credibility. The tone is objective and neutral, with the goal of explaining and justifying the commission's decision.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The patterns of activity demonstrate engagement when presenting the work of the Finance Committee to the plenary session, referencing specific committee sittings (September 10). There is also mention of a one-day postponement of the procedure caused by the Board, which points to a close connection with the shaping of the Riigikogu agenda.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Direct opposition is neither criticized nor mentioned. The speaker proactively addresses potential skepticism regarding the recent establishment of the auditing firm, emphasizing that the long-term experience of the employees makes the company trustworthy.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is strongly consensus-driven, emphasizing the Finance Committee's unanimity in decision-making ("The decision was consensual," "The Committee decided by consensus"). This indicates a preference for achieving internal agreement before bringing the draft bill to the plenary session.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is entirely national, addressing the oversight of the National Audit Office (as a central state institution) and the domestic legislative procedure.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views stress pragmatism and fiscal discipline in public procurement, given that the primary criterion for selecting the auditor was the cost of the bid. At the same time, quality and professional experience (a Big 4 background) are valued, which is expected to provide a "value-creating experience."

3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data

3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is directed towards the adoption of Riigikogu Draft Resolution 495, which concerns the appointment of an auditor to review the activities of the National Audit Office for the 2024–2025 period. The speaker is acting in the role of both the initiator and a supporter of the draft, concentrating on bringing the proceedings to completion through the final vote.

3 Speeches Analyzed