Session Profile: Riina Sikkut
The 15th Riigikogu, VI Session, Plenary Sitting
2025-10-15
Political Position
The political focus is on amending the presidential election law, specifically restoring the proportions of the Electoral College to those preceding the administrative reform. The speaker strongly supports greater representation for rural areas in the Electoral College, considering this fair because investments tend to concentrate in urban areas. This stance is procedural and politically pragmatic, emphasizing the need to improve the accompanying legal amendments. Support is also given to the earlier and public introduction of candidates in the Riigikogu chamber.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates competence regarding the Presidential Election Act, the principles governing the formation of the Electoral College (Valimiskogu), and the legal ramifications of the administrative reform. They are familiar with the constitutional aspects, referencing the discussions held by the Constitutional Assembly concerning the priority given to the Riigikogu in presidential elections. The expertise centers on legislative mechanisms and the prompt rectification of undesirable accompanying amendments.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is analytical, constructive, and emphasizes the urgent need for action so that the legislative amendments take effect before the next elections. The speaker employs logical arguments, comparing the change in the proportions of the Electoral College with the undesirable consequences of other legislative changes (e.g., mandatory schooling). The tone is formal and addressed to colleagues, urging them towards compromise.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is an active legislator, having initiated the bill under discussion and being a member of the Social Democratic Party faction. He/She is participating in the plenary session in October 2025, emphasizing the urgent need for action, as there is barely less than a year left until the next presidential elections.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
There is no direct mutual criticism, but the speaker notes that the restoration of proportions failed to gain broad-based support, which is why it was not included in the draft bill. The criticism is aimed more at the consequences of the previous legislative process (the change resulting from the administrative reform) than at specific political opponents.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker is collaborative and open to compromise, emphasizing the necessity of reaching a political agreement regarding the distribution of the Electoral College. He calls upon his colleagues to maintain a constructive mindset and notes that his position is similar to that of Helir-Valdor Seeder. He is satisfied that at least a "small step" (the presentation of candidates) could be agreed upon.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is tied to the proportions of the Electoral College, where the speaker advocates for greater representation of rural areas (municipalities). He justifies this by arguing that investments and jobs primarily concentrate in urban areas, meaning that giving rural areas greater weight in the Electoral College is not unjust.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient Data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is the amendment of the Presidential Election Act, with [us/the party] serving as the initiator of the draft bill. The objectives are the earlier presentation of candidates in the Riigikogu chamber and the modification of the proportions of the Electoral College in order to restore the ratios that existed prior to the administrative reform. The speaker emphasizes that the changes should remain within the scope of the law and not infringe upon the Constitution.
3 Speeches Analyzed