Agenda Profile: Riina Solman
Inquiry Regarding the Continuation of Service as Prime Minister (No. 728)
2025-04-14
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political position is one of strong opposition criticism regarding the government's performance and its failure to deliver on promises. Key issues include the rising tax burden (VAT, car tax), the lack of energy security, and the demographic crisis. The criticism targets the government's poor execution and broken promises, particularly the decision to make a supposedly temporary VAT hike permanent. Furthermore, there is an emphasis on the need for statesmanship given the looming security crisis.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in economic and tax policy (VAT stability, motor vehicle tax exemptions) and in energy security, highlighting the security risks associated with offshore wind farms and the complexity of protecting infrastructure. Statistical references are utilized concerning poverty (absolute and relative) and the assessment of UN goals, citing data from the Government Office and Statistics Estonia. Furthermore, there is awareness of the Chancellor of Justice’s recent proposals regarding the motor vehicle tax.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical and accusatory, emphasizing the theme of government deceit ("valetanud," "luisanud") concerning tax increases and electricity prices. However, the text simultaneously opens with a call for statesmanship and respectful debate, criticizing the diminishing of female politicians. It employs both logical arguments (a billion euros in tax burden) and emotional appeal, describing poverty and children's hunger.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speech was delivered within the framework of an interpellation, with the speaker expanding their initial request for a brief reply into a longer address to accommodate all critical thoughts. This points to a desire to present a thorough and structured critique of the government's actions.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the prime minister and the government, who are accused of publicly lying (regarding VAT and electricity prices) and improper conduct. The criticism is intense, focusing both on ethical shortcomings (such as the firing of honest officials) and failed policies (tax increases, the energy utopia). Opponents are also accused of seeking to ridicule or diminish the policies or politicians of another party.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Cooperation is offered conditionally on matters of strengthening national defense, where the government can count on Isamaa's advice and resources. At the same time, cooperation is ruled out regarding energy and tax policy, as the government's actions in these areas are deemed utopian and dishonest. It is stressed that during difficult times, the Riigikogu (Parliament) should also stick together.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national issues (inflation, taxes), but the special vulnerability of rural residents is highlighted due to tax hikes (such as the car tax) and higher rates of poverty. It is noted that poverty is already significantly greater in rural areas, and public services are inadequate.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic views expressed are strongly opposed to tax increases, particularly regarding VAT and the proposed car tax, which are exacerbating the European Union's highest inflation rate. The government is criticized for continually taking a billion euros out of the pockets of both individuals and businesses. They are demanding affordable electricity prices and criticizing the government's energy policy as utopian.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among the social problems highlighted are the demographic crisis and the low birth rate, issues the government has completely failed to address. The deepening of poverty is discussed particularly acutely, referencing the work of the Food Bank and the suffering of children. Exemptions from the car tax are demanded for large families (specifically, families with ten children) and people with disabilities.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on the opposition to the recently enacted tax hikes (VAT, car tax), which were initially promised as temporary measures but are now slated to become permanent. There is a demand for exemptions from the car tax for people with disabilities and large families, citing the proposals made by the Chancellor of Justice. The speaker is primarily a critic of the existing legislation and an advocate for change.
4 Speeches Analyzed