Agenda Profile: Rain Epler
First Reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Penal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure (Criminal Jurisdiction and Destruction of Submarine Infrastructure) Bill (656 SE)
2025-10-09
The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political position is cautious and calls for restrictions on the legal framework, particularly concerning amendments to the Penal Code. The speaker opposes the creation of overly broad phrasing that could enable the political abuse of the law, citing election campaign sabotage as an example. This stance is policy- and value-based, warning against granting excessively wide-ranging powers.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates detailed knowledge of the substance of § 203 subsection 1 of the Penal Code and the current damage threshold (€4000) that qualifies the damage as significant. He/She technically analyzes the wording of the draft legislation, focusing on the legal scope of the new clause "or for the purpose of self-gain" and its potential loopholes.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal and analytical, utilizing the form of a question and addressing the minister. An arbitrary, yet politically sharp, hypothetical example (the slashing of a car tire) is used to illustrate the dangers inherent in overly broad legal wording. The tone is cautious and warning, suggesting the possibility that the law is being created specifically for a case originating from a foreign country.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Data is available for only one speech, which took place during the first reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Penal Code (656 SE).
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is aimed at the overly broad wording of the draft law, which could grant excessive authority. Hypothetically, there is criticism regarding the potential unethical conduct of the Social Democrats or Reform Party members within the context of the election campaign, highlighting the risk that the law could be weaponized against political rivals.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is formal, with questions being posed directly to the minister regarding the content of the draft bill. There is no information available regarding a willingness to cooperate or compromise.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national-level amendments to the Penal Code, referencing a potential case originating from a foreign country that is prompting the change. There is no concentration on specific local or regional issues.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social issues center on the principles of the rule of law and political integrity. Emphasis is placed on the need to avoid overly broad statutory language that could jeopardize political competition and freedoms, while balancing security requirements with civil liberties.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on the draft bill (656 SE) proposing amendments to the Penal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure. The speaker strongly opposes the specific wording of one provision in the bill (the proposed supplementation of § 203 subsection 1), calling for it to be narrowed and for greater clarity to be ensured.
1 Speeches Analyzed