Ilves 'Saddened' by Departure of Kallas
President Toomas Hendrik Ilves says it is becoming increasingly difficult to find good people for high positions in Estonia, alluding to the decision of Siim Kallas to withdraw as the candidate for prime minister.
“For years I have been worried that it is increasingly difficult to find good people to represent Estonia. It is becoming more and more difficult,” Ilves said at the Kite Fly conference today.
According to the president, potential candidates are unhappy about the scrutiny they and their families will have to face and decide against it, Ärileht reported.
Commenting on Siim Kallas, Ilves said that Estonia lost a man whose integrity he has never doubted.
“I have never thought he was a crook or a dishonest person. I am saddened by what has happened. I should like to hope that some circles did not shout 'We got rid of him!' As Kadri Liik said - good people will always find a place for themselves. They are not good enough for us, but they will go where the responsibility and pay is greater. I don’t know what will become of Estonia this way,” the president said.