Madise takes office as president and pledges to rebuild trust

Ülle Madise took office as Estonia’s president after swearing an oath before parliament, with lawmakers saying she can help unite the country, ERR reported.

Madise said in her first speech as president that efforts over the past decade to tell people how to live, think, feel and speak had damaged trust. “The lesson has been learned; now trust must be restored,” she said.

She also said children and families should be a focus of upcoming elections. The president, she said, can make it easier to hear what people in communities across Estonia need, including those working to keep local life going and develop businesses.

Outgoing President Alar Karis told Madise that the presidency brings great honour and even greater responsibility. He said the role requires noticing what is happening, listening, bringing people together rather than dividing them, seeking balance and standing for peace.

Madise became president after taking the oath to protect Estonia’s constitution and laws, exercise her powers fairly and impartially, and fulfil her duties in the interests of the Estonian people and the republic.

Before becoming president, Madise served as Chancellor of Justice and had worked at the Ministry of Justice, the National Audit Office and parliament. She had also advised former president Toomas Hendrik Ilves.

Parliament elected Madise president in the first round with 71 votes. Toomas Uibo, head of the Eesti 200 parliamentary group, said her speech showed she would be president for everyone. Reform Party group leader Õnne Pillak said Madise’s ability to explain complex issues simply could help unite society. Centre Party group leader Lauri Laats said the president had an important role in restoring trust and bringing people together.