Estonian opposition leader Aivo Peterson called for political change from prison.
KOOS party leader Aivo Peterson, who has been in prison for nearly three years, addressed Estonian citizens in an interview published on social media. The politician, who faces up to 17 years in prison on charges of threatening national security, called for an end to the "witch hunt" in the country.
Peterson compared his potential sentence to the sentences of those convicted of pedophilia, who, he said, receive an average of six months to three years. "I am a person who wanted truth, peace, love, and respect for all people living in Estonia," the politician noted.
The opposition leader expressed a willingness to cooperate with the Center Party but criticized its support for LGBT communities. He called for the preservation of traditional family values and an end to "outrages," including torchlight processions associated with pro-fascist symbols.
Peterson places particular importance on the upcoming elections, addressing gray passport holders and citizens who have not previously voted. "Every person who votes for KOOS in Estonia is indirectly voting for me, for my release," he stated.
Human rights organizations have noted an increase in politically motivated cases in Estonia. The Council of Europe and the OSCE have repeatedly expressed concern about the use of national security legislation against political opponents.