Newspaper report: SDE, IRL and Free Party consider nominating single presidential candidate
The Social Democratic Party (SDE), Pro Patria and Res Publica Union (IRL), and Free Party have begun considering different candidates for the presidency of Estonia, and all three parties are seeking the opportunity to nominate a single candidate together.
One reason why the three parties are seeking opportunities for cooperation is the fact that in the Riigikogu, 21 MP votes are needed in order to nominate a candidate, which exceeds the total number of MPs any one political party currently has, reported Estonian daily Eesti Päevaleht (link in Estonian).
According to “Eesti Päevaleht,” all three aforementioned parties would consider it ideal if they could agree upon a single nonpartisan candidate, and discussions on the subject have already been had at various levels, but a consensus has yet to be reached.
SDE Chairman Jevgeni Ossinovksi noted that it would be worthwhile to seek the new president together, however that stage would likely come only after the infighting within the Reform Party was resolved.
According to Free Party Chairman Andres Herkel, the candidate should be someone not directly involved in party politics.
Margus Tsahkna, chairman of IRL, noted in yesterday’s “Eesti Päevaleht” article that their party had already spoken to Jüri Luik, Kersti Kaljulaid, and Allar Jõks.
The Reform Party has received the most attention so far; Siim Kallas will be announcing his intent to run for president this Saturday, and some have speculated over the possibility of a Marina Kaljurand candidacy as well.
The 2016 presidential election in Estonia will take place on August 29, 2016. Incumbent Toomas Hendrik Ilves has already served the maximum of two terms in office.
Editor: Editor: Aili Sarapik