Feb 25 • 12:38 UTC 🇪🇪 Estonia ERR

The Riigikogu approved amendments to the presidential election law

The Riigikogu of Estonia has passed amendments to the presidential election law to simplify the nomination process and enhance public involvement.

The Riigikogu has formally adopted changes to the presidential election law, aimed at making the nomination process for presidential candidates smoother and more transparent. The new legislation allows candidates to present themselves to the public prior to voting rounds, enhancing public engagement in the electoral process. In the vote, 64 members supported the amendments while six representatives from the Centre Party opposed them, with one member abstaining and 15 remaining absent, predominantly from the Conservative People's Party and some key party leaders.

These amendments change the timeline for submitting presidential candidacies, pushing the deadline for nominations from a range starting four days to two days before the first voting round, to a new window beginning twelve days prior and ending nine days before the first vote. Proponents of the changes argue that this will not only increase transparency but also provide the electorate with more time to learn about potential candidates, fostering greater public discussion and interest in the presidential race.

Estonia's electoral processes have been facing scrutiny in previous years, and these adjustments signify an attempt by lawmakers to modernize and adapt the country's electoral framework to better involve citizens. By modifying the law, the Riigikogu aims to bolster democratic engagement and ensure that the election of the president resonates more with the public, potentially leading to a more informed electorate at the polls.

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