Currently, only those whose permanent residence is in the city or municipality can run in local elections. This rule has caused disputes. For example, Nõo mayor Maano Koemets is accused of giving false information to the state about his place of residence.
Eesti 200 member Ando Kiviberg said he is gathering support in the Riigikogu for a new proposal. According to it, a candidate should not have to prove their place of residence. It is enough if they show a connection to the place where they want to run. For example, they might work in another city and live there on weekends.
EKRE has made a similar proposal. They said that one should be able to run anywhere. Although other parties do not agree with this.
Isamaa leader Urmas Reinsalu said that one should run where they pay taxes. The leaders of the Reform Party, the Center Party, and the Social Democrats also said that the current system is unsatisfactory and needs to be changed.
Center Party chairman Mihhail Kõlvart said that one option is full freedom to run. Right-wing leader Lavly Perling said that running should not depend on a person's place of residence.