Estonia’s government is facing a motion of no confidence as Tanel Kiik, chairman of the Riigikogu’s Center Party faction, criticizes the administration for its large-scale tax increases and anti-family decisions. Kiik argues that the government, led by Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, is exacerbating the population, economic, and trust crisis with its actions.
Kiik emphasizes that instead of implementing tax increases, the government should focus on developing measures to support individuals and companies that are forced to shut down their activities and lay off employees due to the deepening economic crisis. He further criticizes the government coalition of the Reform Party, Estonia 200, and the Social Democratic Party for implementing short-sighted and anti-family decisions that were not discussed before the elections.
The vice-chairman of the Center Party highlights the need for a reliable and well-thought-out population policy during difficult times, rather than cutting family benefits. Kiik points out that reducing subsidies for families with children during the population crisis is unacceptable and increases uncertainty. He warns that families with children are currently under attack, and other vulnerable groups, such as pensioners and disabled individuals, may become victims of cuts in the future.
Kiik also criticizes the government for implementing large-scale tax increases without seeking a mandate from the people during the Riigikogu elections. He argues that these tax changes worsen Estonia’s economic environment and disproportionately affect those who are already struggling to cope on a daily basis. Kiik highlights that while an employee earning 1,200 euros only gains 6 cents a month from income tax changes, other tax increases significantly reduce the well-being of individuals with low and middle incomes.
Furthermore, Kiik accuses the government coalition of using illegal methods to silence the opposition, limiting the members of the Riigikogu’s right to ask questions and submit drafts and reports. He also criticizes Prime Minister Kallas for her inappropriate use of words, comparing the opposition to Putin’s Russia, Hitler’s Germany, and the KGB. Kiik argues that the prime minister should treat the whole society with respect and calls for her to apologize for her remarks.
In light of these concerns, the opposition in the Riigikogu sees no other option but to distrust Prime Minister Kallas. Kiik concludes by stating that Estonia deserves a better government, one that prioritizes the well-being of its people and implements policies that support individuals and businesses during these challenging times.
What initiatives does Tanel Kiik propose as an alternative to higher taxes, and how does he believe they will help individuals and businesses facing economic difficulties in Estonia
Estonia’s government faces a motion of no confidence as the Chairman of the Riigikogu’s Center Party faction, Tanel Kiik, expresses his disapproval of the administration’s extensive tax hikes and anti-family policies. Kiik argues that Prime Minister Kaja Kallas’s government is worsening the prevailing population, economic, and trust crises with its actions.
Kiik firmly believes that instead of imposing higher taxes, the government should prioritize the development of initiatives to aid individuals and businesses struggling to survive the deepening economic downturn. He further criticizes the government coalition consisting of the Reform Party, Estonia 200, and the Social Democratic Party for implementing short-sighted measures that are detrimental to families.
