Opposition unveils plans

TALLINN - Pro Patria Union and the Moderates, both formerly key Cabinet parties, announced long-term strategies as opposition parties on Feb. 16.

Pro Patria Union will fine-tune its program during a party congress on May 18. The congress will be the first-ever full meeting of former Prime Minister Mart Laar's party.

Sirje Kiin, Pro Patria Union's spokeswoman, said the program will include patriotism, security and defense, and family and social policy as the party's key planks.

After its meeting, the Moderates issued a statement blaming the ruling Center Party for creating a negative image of Estonia.

The statement said the new government was retreating from the reforms begun by the Laar administration and reviving Soviet-style bureaucracy.

The Moderates' opposition strategy includes lobbying for laws related to employee protection and other social security issues.

But as with any opposition party, mudslinging will apparently also be among the tactics.

Toomas Hendrik Ilves, Moderates party chairman and former foreign minister, questions the ethics of Center Party boss and Tallinn Mayor Edgar Savisaar.

Ilves reminded journalists about a scandal that erupted in 1995 after Savisaar recorded conversations with political partners in the run-up to the general elections.

"Foreign politicians are wondering if Savisaar is now different than he was in 1995," said Ilves.

Center Party spokeswoman Evelyn Sepp said Ilves had a personal grudge against Savisaar.