Reform Party politicians split over Estonian military chief's remarks on minister's resignation

Estonian Defence Forces commander Andrus Merilo said in an interview with Delfi that Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur should not have submitted his resignation. According to Merilo, regardless of who becomes the next minister, there will be a pause in the ministry's work, so the minister should have continued until the elections, allowing the next government to carry on with a fresh mandate.

Mixed reactions

Mati Raidma of the Reform Party, a member of the Riigikogu's National Defence Committee, stressed that Merilo's statement should not be seen as the official position of the Defence Forces. He said freedom of expression in Estonia applies to everyone, and this was the commander's personal opinion whose significance should not be overstated.

However, Raidma's party colleague, retired brigadier general Alar Laaneman, argued that the head of the Defence Forces should not have allowed himself such remarks, since a commander's statements should stay within the ministry's sphere of activity. At the same time, he said the reaction was humanly understandable if Merilo had a good working relationship with the minister.

Social Democrat committee member Raimond Kaljulaid added that military officers face certain limits in political life — they may express their views, but it is better for the army's interests if this does not become a habit.

Former Defence Ministry deputy secretary general Meelis Oidsalu noted that Merilo was promoted too quickly through the ranks, which explains certain missteps on the political field — he was appointed directly from brigade commander to Defence Forces commander without the usual intermediate stage where officers gain experience dealing with politicians and the public.

Offer to Herem

Prime Minister Kristen Michal has informally offered the defence minister post to former Defence Forces commander Martin Herem, who is not affiliated with any party. Herem confirmed that so far it is only a suggestion to consider the possibility, no official offer has been made, and he is not ready to accept immediately.