Ratas does not rule out suggesting Solovjov be kicked out of Center Party
Former Kohtla-Järve mayor Jevgeni Solovjov was found guilty of corruption last summer but remains a member of the ruling Center Party. Prime Minister and party chairman Jüri Ratas did not consider it a bad idea to propose himself that Solovjov be kicked out of the party.
Speaking at Wednesday's government press conference, which took place in Brussels, Ratas responded to a question asked regarding when the Center Party would kick Solovjov out that this matter would be discussed as soon as the corresponding proposal was made to party leadership.
"I have myself brought up the issue at certain meetings and discussions of ours and this discussion will take place soon," said the prime minister.
ERR Brussels correspondent Epp Ehand then asked whether Ratas himself could make this proposal to the leadership.
"Thank you for the suggestion," Ratas replied. "This isn't a bad idea at all."
In addition to Solovjov, Jüri Kollo, Lauri Laasi and Priit Toobal, all of whom have been found guilty of corruption, remain members of the Center Party.
Ratas has previously been unable to justify why such individuals remain members of the party, however he has promised that it would definitely be discussed should anyone in the party's leadeship bring the matter up.
Editor: Aili Vahtla
