Session Profile: Helir-Valdor Seeder
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, information briefing
2024-05-08
Political Position
The most prominent topic is internal security and the suspension of voting rights for Russian and Belarusian citizens in local elections, a measure that is strongly supported. The government is sharply criticized for failing to deliver the promised sense of security and for lacking political will. This stance is primarily directed against the government's inaction and inefficiency.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates competence in constitutional law and the legislative process, citing the opinions of experts, the Chancellor of Justice, and the President regarding the impossibility of suspending voting rights without amending the constitution. He/She is aware of alternative solutions (e.g., bilateral treaties) and knows the specifics of the Isamaa draft bill, including the exceptions concerning EU citizens.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is sharp, accusatory, and insistent, highlighting the government's inaction and failure to deliver on its promises. Rhetorical questions and accusations are employed to pressure the opposition, for instance, by referencing the "tax war" and the "abstract shifting of responsibility elsewhere." The appeal itself is mainly logical and fact-based, relying heavily on legal expertise.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active and persistent, repeatedly addressing the Prime Minister on the same topic ("for the umpteenth time"). He/She has taken the initiative to convene consultations of party representatives at the Riigikogu level regarding the issue of voting rights.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the Reform Party and the Prime Minister, who are accused of lacking political will and shifting responsibility. The criticism is intense and focuses on the government's inaction and the futility of the coalition agreement concerning internal security issues. Government initiatives have been rejected as insufficient or unfeasible.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Despite the sharp exchanges with the government, the speaker expresses a willingness to compromise regarding the proposed solution for restricting voting rights. He emphasizes that Isamaa is ready for compromises and that other parties are not deadlocked in their positions. However, the coalition is being accused of mysteriously remaining silent and avoiding cooperation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national internal security and international relations (Russia, Belarus, NATO, EU). There are no references to specific local regions or constituencies.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Expresses strong opposition to the government's economic policy, calling it a "tax war" and linking it directly to economic insecurity. It supports overall confidence in the economy.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is ensuring internal security by restricting the voting rights of Russian and Belarusian citizens in local elections. This prioritizes national security over the civil rights of certain segments of the population.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative priority is the creation of a legal framework for suspending or terminating the voting rights of Russian and Belarusian citizens, stressing the need to initiate constitutional amendments. The speaker supports these initiatives and criticizes the government for failing to present any initiatives for over a year.
2 Speeches Analyzed