Nõgene says Madise could serve two presidential terms

New President Ülle Madise has the potential to serve two terms, although it is too early to say whether she will seek re-election, Paavo Nõgene, director of the president’s office, told ERR on Monday.

Madise took office on Monday. Nõgene said her first foreign visits would be to Latvia on Tuesday and Finland on Wednesday, as those countries could not receive her on the same day. He said the work of the president’s office would continue without interruption as Madise succeeded Alar Karis.

Nõgene said Madise had emphasised rebuilding trust in Estonia, offering hope for the future and encouraging people. He said trust in public officials, journalists, doctors and police had been damaged, and that the president could help bring the country together.

Madise will also continue the AI initiative started by Karis and speak about security and foreign policy, Nõgene said. She has said the National Defence Council will meet regularly. Nõgene added that she would meet members of parliament, political groups, parties and members of the public to familiarise herself with their concerns.

Asked whether Madise might tire during a second term, Nõgene said it was better not to get ahead of events. Madise would first have to complete her initial term and then decide whether to seek another. He also said he hoped the president’s handshaking ceremony on Independence Day would continue unchanged.