Friends describe president-elect Ülle Madise as precise and warm

Friends and acquaintances describe Estonia’s next president, Ülle Madise, as warm, rational, determined and devoted to her work, ERR reported. Parliament elected Madise president, and she will take office in October after taking the oath.

Singer and composer Siiri Sisask, who became friends with Madise during their time in Parliament, sent her a picture of lingonberries after the election.

“I sent her a picture of lingonberries and wrote that even the lingonberries were rejoicing and cheering in the forest,” Sisask said.

Their friendship began when Sisask, then a member of Parliament, sought Madise’s advice on understanding legislation. Madise was then an adviser and head of the secretariat of Parliament’s Constitutional Committee. Sisask said they no longer discuss politics or legislation with each other.

“She has a very refined and delicate sense of humour. When you are in her company, and in the company of her whole family, you feel gratitude and warmth at every moment,” Sisask said.

Olympic champion Erki Nool met Madise at a stadium when she was legal adviser to President Toomas Hendrik Ilves and Nool was a member of Parliament seeking her advice on legislation. Madise went running regularly, and Nool used those occasions to ask her questions.

“Her character is determined. She is certainly devoted to her career. Whether we like that trait or not, it is impossible without it,” Nool said. He also pointed to her regular weekly exercise, saying it showed that she had goals, tolerance for routine and dedication.

Madise had wanted to become an athlete as a student at Tartu’s 15th School, but her career took a different path. She graduated with a gold medal and studied law at the University of Tartu.

Isamaa chairman Urmas Reinsalu, who studied with Madise, remembered her as an intelligent student with a good sense of humour. They also worked together at the Ministry of Justice towards the end of their university studies.

Reinsalu said that if he were to become prime minister, cooperation with his former fellow student as president would be practical and constructive.

Allar Jõks, a sworn advocate and former chancellor of justice, said Madise was not afraid to express her views. He described discussions with her as challenging because she was highly rational, well-read and precise, with strong arguments, while never forcing her opinion on others.

Sisask does not believe Madise’s new office will change her personality. She said Madise’s family background was warm and strong, and that she would remain a warm and trustworthy person.

Nool also described Madise as an enjoyable conversation partner, but said he hoped she would use less formal and carefully weighed language in public appearances, allowing more room for spontaneity and human warmth.