Estonian MP: Interior Minister Overstepped by Reviewing ISS Files

Estonian MP Aivar Kokk (Isamaa) has raised concerns that Interior Minister Igor Taro's visit to the Internal Security Service (ISS) may have overstepped the minister's authority, calling into question the separation of powers. Kokk, deputy chair of the Riigikogu Security Authorities Surveillance Select Committee, stated that Taro must explain on what legal basis and to what extent he examined case files, and which files he selectively reviewed.

Taro visited the ISS on July 3 to review its surveillance procedures and examine closed case files where proceedings had already concluded. The minister said his intention was to dispel doubts about the agency's lawfulness and to personally verify that operations comply with procedures. "Based on the spot checks I carried out there, I did not identify any violations or shortcomings," Taro said, emphasizing he only examined closed cases.

Kokk argued that while the minister can ask for explanations from the agency's director general, reviewing individual investigations crosses a line. "Conduct like that calls into question the independence of the security agencies and raises concerns about the separation of powers and adherence to the principles of oversight," Kokk said.

ISS spokesperson Marta Tuul confirmed the visit, noting that the agency is overseen by nine institutions, including the Ministry of the Interior. She stated that the minister has the right to exercise oversight over institutions within his area of government according to law, and that he was introduced to work processes involving intelligence-gathering and surveillance measures that interfere with fundamental rights.

Maris Lauri (Reform), chair of the same parliamentary committee, commented that the interior minister needs to be familiar with the ISS's work, but access to ongoing case files is highly limited. She added that with classified materials, access is granted on a need-to-know basis.