Estonian Justice Chancellor Ülle Madise announces presidential bid

Estonia's Chancellor of Justice Ülle Madise formally announced on Monday that she will run for president, putting an end to weeks of speculation about her intentions.

Estonia's president is chosen by members of parliament, the Riigikogu, and a candidate needs backing from at least 68 of the 101 lawmakers. Talk of possible candidates had continued through the summer, with the election scheduled for late August.

Madise, currently in the middle of her second seven-year term as chancellor of justice, is the preferred candidate of the ruling coalition parties, Reform and Eesti 200. Earlier this month she indicated she would consider a run if she secured sufficient support among MPs.

In her Monday statement, Madise said she felt deep respect and a sense of awe as she entered the race, describing the presidency as the greatest responsibility she could take on before the Estonian state and its people.

She said she planned to meet with Riigikogu members on Monday to present her views on the role of head of state and take questions from lawmakers. Should she be elected, she said she would carry out the duties of president with honor and awe, serving both the Estonian people and the state.

Candidates must be formally submitted between August 21 and 24, with the presidential election itself taking place on September 2. If no candidate secures enough votes in the first round, additional rounds of voting will follow.