Editorial: Next Estonian President Should Have the People's Support

It is regrettable that President Alar Karis decided not to run for re-election, as he enjoys high popular support and is the type of leader the nation needs in these turbulent times. The next president should be equally wise and balanced. Unfortunately, Estonian presidential elections often devolve into backroom diplomacy with unpredictable outcomes. The process can nearly fail before an unexpected candidate emerges. Such a circus does not befit the Estonian people or any candidate. The enthusiasm with which ruling parties received Karis's decision raises fears of political horse-trading. Prime Minister Kristen Michal made a poor opening move by suggesting that the candidate should preferably be a woman. It is unlikely that anyone would want to be nominated for the reason that the largest parliamentary party wants to use the election to promote its ideology. In the worst case, Estonia could end up with a president who must first shed the baggage of being elected by the most unpopular parties in history.