Center Party Backs Karis for Second Presidential Term, Advocates Direct Elections
Estonia's Center Party has officially endorsed President Alar Karis for a second term while calling for the introduction of direct presidential elections.
The Center Party of Estonia officially voiced its support for President Alar Karis to serve a second term on Saturday. At the same time, the party called for a change in the election process, advocating that the head of state be chosen directly by the people rather than the Riigikogu.
The party adopted a statement emphasizing that Estonia needs a unifying president whose election should be entrusted to the citizens. It supported both the introduction of direct elections and the continuation of Alar Karis as president.
The Center Party argued that the current electoral system has outlived its usefulness, as it creates political tension and is difficult for the public to understand. Karis' term ends in August, and so far no candidate has secured the necessary votes in parliament.
In April, the party submitted a bill to the Riigikogu for the eighth time in an attempt to change the presidential election process to a direct vote.
Center Party Chairman Mihhail Kõlvart stated that the presidential election will take place in just three months and that the choice must be made under the current legislation. However, he noted that in the party's view, the choice is very clear: if there is a president who, over four years, has demonstrated sufficient dignity and readiness to protect both the people and the constitution, and who enjoys public support as polls indicate, then politicians have nothing to discuss.
Karis remains popular with the public but not with the sitting government, making it unlikely that he would secure the required votes for a second term if he decides to run.
