Ombudsman Madise: Narva politicians should uphold respectful political culture

Ombudsman Ülle Madise cautioned politicians competing for power in Narva to conduct themselves fairly toward both sides. She stressed that political power dynamics are in constant flux and poor political culture drives voters away.

Ombudsman Ülle Madise drew attention to tensions in Narva's political landscape, warning local politicians that power struggles should unfold in a manner that respects both sides. According to Madise, the political forces active in Narva should bear in mind that their actions appear fair when viewed from either perspective.

The ombudsman stressed that political power dynamics are never permanently fixed — they are in constant flux. This means that those in power today could end up in opposition tomorrow, and for this reason all parties should follow political rules honestly and transparently.

Madise added that poor political culture does not escape voters' notice. In the eyes of residents, engaging in dishonest or one-sided politics undermines confidence in the local municipality as a whole, which in the longer term can damage the reputation of all political forces operating there.