The Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture, inspired by the experience of the government's representative in Ida-Viru County, plans to hire economic revitalization coordinators for four regions in Estonia.

Ligi criticized the plan, saying the role of these officials is unclear and lacks a defined method or practical goals. Ligi argued that civil servants do not create jobs but should focus on building an environment for development, and it is the minister's duty to explain their purpose clearly. He also questioned the effectiveness of similar past initiatives and suggested the move is more about political optics than practical solutions.

He said that he listened to the interview with Minister of Regional Affairs and Agriculture Piret Hartman but failed to understand what role the ministry envisions for the representatives.

"I listened to Piret Hartman's interview yesterday as well. It was really unpleasant to hear. When asked why these four officials are being hired, instead of explaining what they will actually do, she starts talking about how, 'If we look at the problems we have, we realize we have problems here and there,'" Ligi said.

Asked by ERR why the minister of regional affairs plans to hire economic revitalization coordinators when the finance minister is opposed to the idea, Ligi said: "Ratings are one reason. Another is that it seems to me like the People's Union culture – just to push back, make a show of it, stand tall and try to balance something. But you cannot balance rationality by being irrational."

The Ministry of Regional Affairs has proposed appointing regional representatives across Estonia to improve communication between central government and local areas, building on the success of the current Ida-Viru representative. These representatives would focus on economic development, ensuring the availability and effectiveness of support measures and addressing any implementation challenges, as explained by the Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture. Four regional managers are planned for East, Central, South and West Estonia, and their roles will include providing timely updates to the government on regional economic conditions.

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