Paper: Group planning on forming new political party
A group of well-known Estonian specialists that has been meeting in recent months may have a new political party in the works.
Among those who have been getting together are Margus Tsahkna, Priit Alamäe, Kristina Kallas, Kadri Napritson Acuna, Herman Kelomees, Susan Lilleväli and Kristiina Tõnnisson, all of whom have declined to comment on the meetings, wrote daily Eesti Päevaleht (link in Estonian).
The paper noted that the first meeting took place in Ida-Viru County last fall, following the 2017 local elections, and the most recent in Pirita on Saturday. While earlier meetings involved a smaller circle of people discussing ideas regarding the future of Estonia over a glass of wine, Saturday's meeting, in contrast, involved approximately 30 people.
According to the paper's information, these meetings involve discussion on topics ranging from environmental protection and education to integration and citizenship, and people from various fields have been invited to talk at these meetings, some of whom have been invited by Margus Tsahkna, who left the Pro Patria and Res Publica Union (IRL) last June.
One idea that has been discussed at these meetings is that the future Estonian government should consist of people who are all experts in their respective fields, EPL claimed, adding that the fact that the group has a specific goal in mind is demonstrated by participants having sworn an oath of secrecy not to discuss their meetings publicly.
Tsahkna confirmed to the paper that there was indeed a gathering on Saturday, but there has been no talk of forming a political party.
"Just a different group of friends has gotten together and discussed various topics," he said. "What might become of Estonia in the future. These are people from various fields who have been in touch for years, and Saturday's meeting was also a discussion among friends."
Editor: Aili Vahtla