The chairman of the Social Democratic Party, Lauri Läänemets, wants the Riigikogu's Council of Elders to meet. He says that Ülle Madise could have the support of three parties. However, there is confusion in the Reform Party, and they may not give all their votes.
Läänemets says that Isamaa and Keskerakond should announce their position. If they support Madise, it would be easier for her to become president. Currently, the situation is unclear, and everyone is waiting for these parties' decision.
Läänemets believes the government is afraid to convene the Council of Elders. He doesn't know why they are afraid. The Riigikogu speaker, Lauri Hussar, says that Läänemets has not discussed this with him.
Hussar says that in July, candidates will be sought, in August the final candidate will be chosen, and in September the president will be elected. The Council of Elders should meet in early August.
The chairman of Eesti 200, Kristina Kallas, says that some parties do not want a joint candidate. The Reform Party, Social Democrats, and Eesti 200 support Madise, but Isamaa and Keskerakond remain silent.
Kallas says that the prime minister has spoken with the leader of Keskerakond, but the response was vague. She hopes that Isamaa and Keskerakond will show statesmanship and support Madise.
The Reform Party's faction leader, Õnne Pillak, calls on Isamaa and Keskerakond to cooperate. She says they should simply decide and announce their position.
The chairman of Isamaa, Urmas Reinsalu, says that the party has not ruled out any candidates. He calls for the Council of Elders to meet quickly to discuss candidates.
The deputy chairman of Keskerakond, Lauri Laats, says that Madise is a good candidate, but her candidacy needs to be discussed. He believes the presidential election should be a fair process.
Presidential candidates will be announced on August 21. Currently, only EKRE has a definite candidate – Mart Helme.