In a move that surprised many in terms of its smoothness and speed, the Head of the Estonian National Museum Alar Karis was last week elected as the President of the Republic in just the second round of voting – albeit in an election in which he was the only candidate.
The unexpectedly smooth process, however, is indicative more of an efficient working of the ruling coalition rather than of the authority and blanket support for the newly elected President. It is yet to be seen if Mr Karis will create a lasting legacy in the Estonian political landscape.
Kesarev takes a deeper look at the background to the election and what challenges the Karis Presidency will face in the run-up to the 2023 parliamentary elections.
