Urmas Sukles has been the mayor of Haapsalu for 25 years. Now he joined the Center Party and wants to go to the Riigikogu. He said that the Center Party has good prospects in Estonian politics.
Aren't you bored since you're no longer the mayor? Sukles replied that he isn't bored right now, but he needs activity. He has visited many places in Europe and wants to share his experience.
Will you definitely go to the Riigikogu if elected? Sukles said that it's still ahead, but he is ready to work. The Center Party's rating is good, but there aren't many Estonian-speaking names in rural areas. Sukles believes there are more Estonian-speaking names in the Center Party than Russian-speaking ones.
Why did you join the Center Party, where Jana Toom is? Sukles said that every party has people who evoke different feelings. Jana Toom is an Estonian citizen and a member of the European Parliament. If their opinions don't align, he says so publicly, but he doesn't see why they can't be in the same party.
Are you ready to become a minister? Sukles replied that it's very unlikely. He is 67 years old and thinks younger people should do that job. If the party decides, he will consider it, but he wants to win the elections first.
What are your relations with Jaanus Karilaid? Sukles said they are coldly friendly. Karilaid has accused him falsely, and that's too much for Sukles. He won't forget it, but in politics, compromises must be made.
Did you consider other parties? Sukles said the Reform Party kicked him out. He doesn't understand the Social Democrats' worldview. In his opinion, the right-wingers are too chaotic. He doesn't like EKRE. His friends have joined Isamaa, so only the Center Party remained.
What are your values? Sukles said he is in the center. He is neither conservative nor liberal. He is a tolerant person because he trained to be a doctor. His worldview is medical—we live peacefully and without interfering with each other.
Are you a strong leader? Sukles replied that he doesn't want to be a strong leader, but he has the qualities for it. He is soft-hearted, but if someone proves his decision is wrong, he changes it. He hasn't heard the nickname "Haapsalu Sheriff."
Is it harder in Tallinn than in Haapsalu? Sukles said he is a team player. He played basketball and knows how to work together. He doesn't agree with everything, but he listens to others.