Experts: Good Chances of Electing Estonia's Next President in Riigikogu
Political scientists believe that Estonia's next president may be elected in the Riigikogu this time, with Chancellor of Justice Ülle Madise seen as the strongest candidate among those mentioned.
Experts see a strong possibility that Estonia's next president will be elected in the Riigikogu. Although only former Estonian Defense League head Riho Ühtegi and EKRE Vice Chairman Mart Helme have publicly declared their candidacy, analysts consider several other names as serious contenders.
Chancellor of Justice Ülle Madise is viewed as the most viable candidate. Others include Foreign Ministry Secretary General Jonatan Vseviov and senior civil servant Maive Rute. Analysts note signs of interest; for instance, Vseviov launched a new public social media account a month ago and a lengthy profile of him was published on Saturday.
Political scientist Tarmo Jüristo says parties are approaching the election on the assumption that the decisive stage will be in the Riigikogu, not the Electoral College, giving candidates reason to avoid major public campaigns. Communications expert Annika Arras expects more names to emerge in the coming weeks to clarify the criteria for selection.
Analysts warn that delaying the election or prioritizing narrow party interests could backfire in future parliamentary elections. If Isamaa and the Center Party move more decisively behind Ühtegi, it could suggest they don't intend to elect a president in the Riigikogu. Ühtegi's conservative views make it unlikely for liberal parties to support him; his chances are better in the Electoral College.
The Reform Party leadership said on Saturday it would support Ülle Madise if she accepts the nomination, but is also considering Maive Rute as a candidate.
