Tali Responds to ERJK Claims Over Social Media Ads

Last week, Estonia's Political Party Funding Supervision Committee (ERJK) started proceedings against Riigikogu members Luisa Värk and Kadri Tali regarding advertisements on social media. ERJK chairman Heiki Sibul noted that Tali participated in an ad published on the social media accounts of Audi Tallinn and Audi Eesti, which are official channels of Reval Auto Esindused OU. The committee asked Tali to explain how she separates her roles as a politician and a cultural figure in the ad, and whether the company that ordered the ad provided any benefits or compensation.

In her response, Tali emphasized that since 1997, together with her twin sister, conductor Anu Tali, she has been managing the Nordic Symphony Orchestra, which exists with support from private companies. "Over 30 years, we as a duo have divided responsibilities so that Anu Tali handles all artistic decisions, while I as manager am responsible for all organizational work. Audi is one of the orchestra's sponsors, and we agreed on cooperation where we receive a car for use, and in return we provide advertising cooperation," Tali explained. She noted that her roles as a cultural figure and a member of parliament are part of her life and do not contradict the values of a politician and MP.

Regarding Värk, ERJK stated that she published advertisements for Mööbliait and Goldtime products on her social media accounts. The committee asked Värk to explain whether the companies provided any benefits or remuneration for participation, and whether such benefits are planned in the future. Additionally, ERJK requested supporting documents, including agreements or contracts. However, Värk refused to answer ERR's questions, saying the matter concerns only her and ERJK and that there is no public interest.