Social Democrats in Ida-Virumaa finalize candidate list without Katri Raik
The Social Democratic Party's Ida-Virumaa branch has nearly completed its candidate list for the next parliamentary elections, accounting for former Narva mayor Katri Raik's decision not to run.
Eduard Odinec, chairman of the party's council and leader of the Ida-Viru county branch, announced that the Social Democratic Party's (SDE) candidate list for the upcoming Riigikogu elections is almost ready. In an interview with Rus.ERR on Sunday, Odinec stated that the list will include both newcomers and experienced politicians, with the final version to be unveiled closer to the start of winter.
Odinec also commented on former Narva mayor Katri Raik's decision not to participate in the elections. He noted that the party is already factoring in her absence when planning its campaign. "It was a loss for us already in the previous elections when Katri Raik did not run with us. We understand her position and assume she will not be on our list," Odinec said. Raik confirmed a month ago that her decision is final, despite discussions with SDE representatives about joining the parliamentary campaign.
In the 2023 elections, when Raik declined to run, the Social Democrats failed to secure any mandates in Ida-Virumaa. The district elected Jana Toom (Centre Party), Meelis Kiili (Reform Party), and Arvo Aller (EKRE). Toom declined her mandate and was replaced by Aleksei Jevgrafov.
When asked whether Odinec and former culture minister Piret Hartman would lead the list, Odinec said the decision has not yet been made. The next parliamentary elections in Estonia are scheduled for March 7, 2027.
