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{{Short description|Estonian politician (1950–2022)}}
{{Short description|Estonian politician (1950–2022)}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2023}}
{{Infobox officeholder
{{Infobox officeholder
| name = Edgar Savisaar
| name = Edgar Savisaar
| image = Edgar Savisaar 2005.jpg
| image = RK Edgar Savisaar.jpg
| office1 = 1st [[Prime Minister of Estonia|Prime Minister of the Interim Government of Estonia]]
| caption = Savisaar in 2013
| office1 = 1st [[Prime Minister of Estonia|Prime Minister of the Interim Government of Estonia]]
| term_start1 = 20 August 1991
| term_start1 = 20 August 1991
| term_end1 = 29 January 1992
| term_end1 = 29 January 1992
| president1 = [[Arnold Rüütel]]<br><small>as [[List of chairmen of the Supreme Soviet of the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic|Chairman of the Supreme Soviet]] (1990)<br>as [[List of chairmen of the Supreme Soviet of the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic|Chairman of the Supreme Council]] (1990–1992)</small>
| president1 = [[Arnold Rüütel]]<br>as [[List of chairmen of the Supreme Soviet of the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic|Chairman of the Supreme Soviet]] (1990)<br>as [[List of chairmen of the Supreme Soviet of the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic|Chairman of the Supreme Council]] (1990–1992)
| predecessor1= position established<br />[[Otto Tief]]<br><small>as last acting [[Prime Minister of Estonia|Prime Minister]] in 1944</small>
| predecessor1 = position established<br />[[Otto Tief]]<br>as last acting [[Prime Minister of Estonia|Prime Minister]] in 1944
| successor1 = [[Tiit Vähi]]
| successor1 = [[Tiit Vähi]]
| office2 = [[Minister of the Interior and Regional Affairs (Estonia)|Minister of the Interior]]
| office2 = [[Minister of the Interior and Regional Affairs (Estonia)|Minister of the Interior]]
| term_start2 = 12 April 1995
| term_start2 = 12 April 1995
| term_end2 = 10 October 1995
| term_end2 = 10 October 1995
| predecessor2 = [[Kaido Kama]]
| predecessor2 = [[Kaido Kama]]
| successor2 = [[Märt Rask]]
| successor2 = [[Märt Rask]]
| office3 = [[List of mayors of Tallinn|Mayor of Tallinn]]
| office3 = [[List of mayors of Tallinn|Mayor of Tallinn]]
| term_start3 = 9 April 2007
| term_start3 = 9 April 2007
| term_end3 = 30 September 2015
| term_end3 = 30 September 2015
| predecessor3 = [[Jüri Ratas]]
| predecessor3 = [[Jüri Ratas]]
| successor3 = [[Taavi Aas]]
| successor3 = [[Taavi Aas]]
| term_start4 = December 2001
| term_start4 = 2 December 2001
| term_end4 = October 2004
| term_end4 = 10 October 2004
| predecessor4 = [[Tõnis Palts]]
| predecessor4 = [[Tõnis Palts]]
| successor4 = [[Tõnis Palts]]
| successor4 = [[Tõnis Palts]]
| office5 = Minister of Economic Affairs and Communications
| birth_date = {{birth date|1950|5|31|df=y}}
| primeminister5 = [[Andrus Ansip]]
| birth_place = [[Harku]], Estonia
| term_start5 = 12 April 2005
| death_date = {{death date and age|2022|12|29|1950|5|31|df=y}}
| term_end5 = 5 April 2007
| death_place = [[Tallinn]], Estonia
| predecessor5 = [[Andrus Ansip]]
| party = [[Communist Party of the Soviet Union|Communist Party]] {{small|(1983–1988)}}<br>[[Popular Front of Estonia|Popular Front]] {{small|(1988–1991)}}<br>[[Estonian Centre Party|Centre Party]] {{small|(1991–present)}}
| successor5 = [[Juhan Parts]]
| spouse = [[Vilja Savisaar-Toomast|Vilja Laanaru]] {{small|(1996–2009)}}
| birth_date = {{birth date|1950|5|31|df=y}}
| children = 4, including [[Erki Savisaar]]
| birth_place = [[Harku]], Estonia
| alma_mater = [[University of Tartu]]
| death_date = {{death date and age|2022|12|29|1950|5|31|df=y}}
| death_place = [[Tallinn]], Estonia
| party = [[Communist Party of the Soviet Union|Communist Party]] {{small|(1983–1988)}}<br>[[Popular Front of Estonia|Popular Front]] {{small|(1988–1991)}}<br>[[Estonian Centre Party|Centre Party]] {{small|(1991–2022)}}
| spouse = {{marriage|[[Vilja Toomast|Vilja Laanaru]]|1996|2009|reason=div}}
| children = 4, including [[Erki Savisaar]]
| alma_mater = [[University of Tartu]]
}}
}}


'''Edgar Savisaar''' (31 May 1950 – 29 December 2022) was an Estonian politician, one of the founding members of [[Popular Front of Estonia]] and the [[Estonian Centre Party|Centre Party]]. He served as the [[Prime Minister of Estonia|acting Prime Minister of Estonia]], [[Minister of the Interior (Estonia)|Minister of the Interior]], [[Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications|Minister of Economic Affairs and Communications]] and [[mayor of Tallinn]].
'''Edgar Savisaar''' (31 May 1950 – 29 December 2022) was an Estonian politician, one of the founding members of [[Popular Front of Estonia]] and the [[Estonian Centre Party|Centre Party]]. He served as the [[Prime Minister of Estonia|acting Prime Minister of Estonia]], [[Minister of the Interior (Estonia)|Minister of the Interior]], [[Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications|Minister of Economic Affairs and Communications]], and twice [[mayor of Tallinn]].


== Early life and education ==
== Early life and education ==
Savisaar was born in the [[Harku Prison]] in 1950. His parents farmers Elmar Savisaar (1911–1970) and Marie Savisaar née Burešin (1912–1984) from [[Vastse-Kuuste]], [[Tartu County]], had been convicted in 1949 for resisting [[Collectivization in the Soviet Union|collectivization]]. The events, which had culminated with physical conflict, had started when [[kolhoz]] activists came to [[Nationalization|nationalise]] Savisaar's two cows (named Marja and Oksa), a pig, a horse drawn [[hay rake]], a [[spring-tooth harrow]], and other farming equipment. Elmar was sentenced for 15 years (freed in 1952) and Marie for 5 years (freed in 1950) in prison.<ref name="burešin">{{cite web | url=http://ekspress.delfi.ee/kuum/avastus-arhiivist-savisaare-vanemad-pandi-vangi-sest-nad-protestisid-kolhoosi-vastu?id=31293805 | title=Savisaare vanemad pandi vangi, sest nad protestisid kolhoosi vastu [Savisaar's parents jailed for protesting against the kolkhoz] | website=ekspress.delfi.ee | access-date=29 December 2015}}</ref>
Savisaar was born in the [[Harku Prison]] in 1950. His parents Elmar Savisaar (1911–1970) and Marie Savisaar née Burešin (1912–1984) were farmers from [[Vastse-Kuuste]], [[Tartu County]], who both had been convicted in 1949 of resisting [[Collectivization in the Soviet Union|collectivization]]. The events, which had culminated with physical conflict, had started when [[kolhoz]] activists came to [[Nationalization|nationalise]] Savisaar couple's two cows (named Marja and Oksa), a pig, a horse drawn [[hay rake]], a [[spring-tooth harrow]], and other farming equipment. Elmar was sentenced to 15 years and Marie to 5 years in prison.<ref name="burešin">{{cite web | url=http://ekspress.delfi.ee/kuum/avastus-arhiivist-savisaare-vanemad-pandi-vangi-sest-nad-protestisid-kolhoosi-vastu?id=31293805 | title=Savisaare vanemad pandi vangi, sest nad protestisid kolhoosi vastu [Savisaar's parents jailed for protesting against the kolkhoz] | website=ekspress.delfi.ee | access-date=29 December 2015}}</ref> In the autumn of 1950, Marie was released from prison under an amnesty and returned to Vastse-Kuuste with her son.<ref>[Enno Tammer. ''The Power of Memory'', pp 21, 3]</ref> In 1952, Elmar was acquitted of one of the offences, and the sentence for the second episode was reduced to 2.5 years, which was deemed to have been served, and he was released from prison.<ref name=burešin />


After graduating from high school, Savisaar continued his studies at the [[University of Tartu]]. In 1973, he graduated from the university with a degree in history. In 1980, he wrote his candidate thesis in philosophy on the topic "Social Philosophical Foundations of the Global Models of the [[Club of Rome]]".<ref name=gov-edgar>{{cite web |title=Edgar Savisaar |work=biography |publisher=web site of The Government of the Republic of Estonia |url=http://www.valitsus.ee/?id=1415 |access-date=14 February 2007 }}</ref>
After graduating from high school, Savisaar continued his studies at the [[University of Tartu]]. In 1973, he graduated from the university with a degree in history. In 1980, he wrote his candidate thesis in philosophy on the topic "Social Philosophical Foundations of the Global Models of the [[Club of Rome]]".<ref name=gov-edgar>{{cite web |title=Edgar Savisaar |work=biography |publisher=web site of The Government of the Republic of Estonia |url=http://www.valitsus.ee/?id=1415 |access-date=14 February 2007 }}</ref>


== Career ==
== Career ==
From 1980 to 1988, Savisaar worked in the Soviet Estonian governmental institutions dealing with the planning of economy. During 1988–1989, he was the academic director for the consultation company "Mainor".
From 1980 to 1988, Savisaar worked in the Soviet Estonian governmental institutions dealing with planning of the economy. During 1988–1989, he was the academic director for the consultancy firm "Mainor".


In April he co-established the [[Popular Front of Estonia|Popular Front]] (Rahvarinne) which became the first political mass organization in Soviet Union outside Communist Party after 1920. Initially formed to support perestroika, the Popular Front eventually developed ideas of Estonian national independence and created the [[Singing Revolution]] phenomenon. The process among several others led to dissolution of Soviet Union.
In April he co-established the [[Popular Front of Estonia|Popular Front]] (Rahvarinne) which became the first mass political organization in the Soviet Union outside of the [[Communist Party]] since 1920. Initially formed to support [[perestroika]], the Popular Front eventually developed ideas of Estonian national independence. This process among several others led to dissolution of the Soviet Union.


In 1989, he became the Vice-Chairman of the Council of Ministers of [[Estonian SSR]] and the Head of the State Plan Committee. In 1990, he was the [[Minister of Economic Affairs and Communications|Minister of Economic Affairs]]. On 3 April 1990, he was appointed the Chairman of the Council of Ministers. When Estonia declared independence on 20 August 1991, he became the first Prime Minister of the Republic of Estonia. His government was in office until 29 January 1992, when he resigned after supplementary problems and a continuing decline in economy. Most of his governing time was characterized by [[hyperinflation]] and ever increasing deficit of goods. "Purchase cards" and [[ration stamps]] were introduced. During the winter of 1991/1992 preparations were made to [[Emergency evacuation|evacuate]] the dormitory regions of Tallinn due to shortage of fuel. On 31 December 1991, people stood for hours in the bread queues, many were eventually left without bread. In January 1992, butter disappeared from the shops. Savisaar managed to win a vote of non-confidence, being mostly supported by his Popular Front, left-wing parties and the [[Intermovement]], but stepped down when it turned out impossible to introduce a state of emergency. He was replaced by a technocratic government under [[Tiit Vähi]].
In 1989, he became the vice-chairman of the Council of Ministers of [[Estonian SSR]] and the Head of the State Planning Committee. In 1990, he was the [[Minister of Economic Affairs and Communications|Minister of Economic Affairs]]. On 3 April 1990, he was appointed the Chairman of the Council of Ministers. When Estonia declared independence on 20 August 1991, he became the first Prime Minister of the Republic of Estonia. His government was in office until 29 January 1992, when he resigned after supplementary problems and a continuing decline in economy. Most of his governing time was characterized by [[hyperinflation]] and ever increasing deficit of goods. "Purchase cards" and [[ration stamps]] were introduced. During the winter of 1991/1992 preparations were made to [[Emergency evacuation|evacuate]] the dormitory regions of Tallinn due to shortage of fuel. On 31 December 1991, people stood for hours in the bread queues, many were eventually left without bread. In January 1992, butter disappeared from the shops. Savisaar managed to win a vote of non-confidence, being mostly supported by his Popular Front, left-wing parties and the [[Intermovement]], but stepped down when it turned out impossible to introduce a state of emergency. He was replaced by a technocratic government under [[Tiit Vähi]].


From 1992 until 1995, Savisaar was the Vice-Speaker of the Estonian Parliament ([[Riigikogu]]). From 17 April to 6 November 1995, he was the Minister for Internal Affairs. When he was accused of recording private conversations of other politicians, the entire government faltered. Although his participation in the recordings was never proved, he announced his intention to leave politics. However, in 1996, he participated in the local municipalities elections and became the chairman of the [[Tallinn]] City Council. His return to the Centre Party leader's post evoked a split, as some leading members disillusioned with Savisaar's leadership style left to found ''Arengupartei''. From 2001 to 14 October 2004, he was mayor of [[Tallinn]]. On 11 April 2005, he became [[Minister of Economic Affairs and Communications]] in the new coalition of Prime Minister [[Andrus Ansip]] and worked in the post until March 2007.
From 1992 until 1995, Savisaar was the Vice-Speaker of the Estonian Parliament ([[Riigikogu]]). From 17 April to 6 November 1995, he was the Minister for Internal Affairs. When he was accused of recording private conversations of other politicians, the entire government faltered. Although his participation in the recordings was never proved, he announced his intention to leave politics. However, in 1996, he participated in the local municipalities elections and became the chairman of the [[Tallinn]] City Council. His return to the Centre Party leader's post evoked a split, as some leading members disillusioned with Savisaar's leadership style left to found ''Arengupartei''. From 2001 to 14 October 2004, he was mayor of [[Tallinn]]. On 11 April 2005, he became [[Minister of Economic Affairs and Communications]] in the new coalition of Prime Minister [[Andrus Ansip]] and worked in the post until March 2007.
Since 2007 he has been mayor of Tallinn, the capital of Estonia.
Since 2007 he has been mayor of Tallinn, the capital of Estonia.


Edgar Savisaar and Estonia People's Union leader [[Villu Reiljan]] jointly supported [[Arnold Rüütel]]'s candidature for presidency in August–September 2006; [[Toomas Hendrik Ilves]] was elected though, a choice criticised by Savisaar and attributed by him to alleged hostile media and partisan lawmakers.<ref>{{cite web|title=Edgar Savisaar seab kahtluse alla riigikohtu erapooletuse - Arhiiv - Postimees: Värsked uudised Eestist ja välismaalt|url=http://www.postimees.ee/1580957/edgar-savisaar-seab-kahtluse-alla-riigikohtu-erapooletuse|publisher=postimees.ee|access-date=13 August 2016}}</ref> Savisaar refused to congratulate the winner.<ref>[http://www.postimees.ee/240906/esileht/siseuudised/presidendivalimised_2006/219571.php?r Postimees: Edgar Savisaar seab kahtluse alla riigikohtu erapooletuse] {{webarchive|url=https://archive.today/20120907050857/http://www.postimees.ee/240906/esileht/siseuudised/presidendivalimised_2006/219571.php?r |date=7 September 2012 }}. Postimees.ee. Retrieved on 4 August 2011.</ref>
Edgar Savisaar and Estonia People's Union leader [[Villu Reiljan]] jointly supported [[Arnold Rüütel]]'s candidature for presidency in August–September 2006; [[Toomas Hendrik Ilves]] was elected though, a choice criticised by Savisaar and attributed by him to alleged hostile media and partisan lawmakers.<ref>{{cite web|title=Edgar Savisaar seab kahtluse alla riigikohtu erapooletuse - Arhiiv - Postimees: Värsked uudised Eestist ja välismaalt|date=23 September 2006 |url=http://www.postimees.ee/1580957/edgar-savisaar-seab-kahtluse-alla-riigikohtu-erapooletuse|publisher=postimees.ee|access-date=13 August 2016}}</ref> Savisaar refused to congratulate the winner.<ref>[http://www.postimees.ee/240906/esileht/siseuudised/presidendivalimised_2006/219571.php?r Postimees: Edgar Savisaar seab kahtluse alla riigikohtu erapooletuse] {{webarchive|url=https://archive.today/20120907050857/http://www.postimees.ee/240906/esileht/siseuudised/presidendivalimised_2006/219571.php?r |date=7 September 2012 }}. Postimees.ee. Retrieved on 4 August 2011.</ref>


In 2016, the discussion on electing a new leader escalated in the Centre Party and an extraordinary party congress was called for November.<ref>{{cite web|title=Savisaar agrees to extraordinary Center Party congress|url=http://news.err.ee/v/8bffd327-c58f-40e9-8cd2-5369425a5622|publisher=ERR|date=14 September 2016|access-date=4 November 2016}}</ref> MP [[Jüri Ratas]] was the first to announce his candidacy, after which four others followed, including [[Yana Toom]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Ratas to run for chairman of Center Party, Ernits for party council chair|url=http://news.err.ee/v/723f39d3-740b-45f3-bdde-577f4723ec66|publisher=ERR|date=12 October 2016|access-date=4 November 2016}}</ref> Even though Savisaar first announced his candidacy, he later announced that he would not participate the leadership election and instead endorsed Toom.<ref>{{cite web|title=Savisaar won't attend Center Party congress, asks to vote for Toom|url=http://news.postimees.ee/3898359/savisaar-won-t-attend-center-party-congress-asks-to-vote-for-toom|publisher=Postimees|date=4 November 2016|access-date=4 November 2016}}</ref>
In 2016, the discussion on electing a new leader escalated in the Centre Party and an extraordinary party congress was called for November.<ref>{{cite web|title=Savisaar agrees to extraordinary Center Party congress|url=http://news.err.ee/v/8bffd327-c58f-40e9-8cd2-5369425a5622|publisher=ERR|date=14 September 2016|access-date=4 November 2016}}</ref> MP [[Jüri Ratas]] was the first to announce his candidacy, after which four others followed, including [[Yana Toom]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Ratas to run for chairman of Center Party, Ernits for party council chair|url=http://news.err.ee/v/723f39d3-740b-45f3-bdde-577f4723ec66|publisher=ERR|date=12 October 2016|access-date=4 November 2016}}</ref> Even though Savisaar first announced his candidacy, he later announced that he would not participate in the leadership election and instead endorsed Toom.<ref>{{cite web|title=Savisaar won't attend Center Party congress, asks to vote for Toom|url=http://news.postimees.ee/3898359/savisaar-won-t-attend-center-party-congress-asks-to-vote-for-toom|publisher=Postimees|date=4 November 2016|access-date=4 November 2016}}</ref>


Savisaar has published four books. He has received the [[Order of the National Coat of Arms]] 2nd Class in 2001<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.president.ee/en/estonia/decorations/bearers.php?id=981 | title=Bearers of decorations | website=president.ee | access-date=2 January 2014}}</ref> and 1st Class in 2006<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.president.ee/en/estonia/decorations/bearers.php?id=1119 | title=Bearers of decorations | website=president.ee | access-date=2 January 2014}}</ref> from Estonia and the [[Order of the Three Stars]] 2nd Class in 2005 from Latvia.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.president.lv/images/modules/items/DOC/tzo%20registrs.doc | title=Ar Triju Zvaigžņu ordeni apbalvoto personu reģistrs apbalvošanas secībā, sākot no 2004. gada 1.oktobra | work=president.lv | access-date=2 January 2014 | page=14 | language=lv | format=DOC | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130510210006/http://www.president.lv/images/modules/items/DOC/tzo%20registrs.doc | archive-date=10 May 2013 | url-status=dead }}</ref>
Savisaar published four books. He received the [[Order of the National Coat of Arms]] 2nd Class in 2001<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.president.ee/en/estonia/decorations/bearers.php?id=981 | title=Bearers of decorations | website=president.ee | access-date=2 January 2014}}</ref> and 1st Class in 2006<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.president.ee/en/estonia/decorations/bearers.php?id=1119 | title=Bearers of decorations | website=president.ee | access-date=2 January 2014}}</ref> from Estonia and the [[Order of the Three Stars]] 2nd Class in 2005 from Latvia.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.president.lv/images/modules/items/DOC/tzo%20registrs.doc | title=Ar Triju Zvaigžņu ordeni apbalvoto personu reģistrs apbalvošanas secībā, sākot no 2004. gada 1.oktobra | work=president.lv | access-date=2 January 2014 | page=14 | language=lv | format=DOC | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130510210006/http://www.president.lv/images/modules/items/DOC/tzo%20registrs.doc | archive-date=10 May 2013 | url-status=dead }}</ref>


== Controversy ==
== Controversy ==
[[File:Edgar Savisaar2.jpg|thumb|left|Savisaar giving an interview during the 2006 presidential election]]
[[File:Edgar Savisaar2.jpg|thumb|left|Savisaar giving an interview during the 2006 presidential election]]
Savisaar is one of the most controversial politicians in Estonia. While some people, including many from the Russian-speaking minority, see him as a defender of the poor, his political opponents accuse him of authoritarianism, nepotism, corruption, destructive intrigues, and having close ties with some [[Russia]]n politicians. The latter accusation has been fuelled by the Centre Party's collaboration agreement with [[Vladimir Putin|Putin's]] [[United Russia]] party, particularly since the agreement's content has not been made public. Savisaar is often associated with using [[Machiavelli#Machiavellian|Machiavellian]] politics and deals to achieve his goals, such as taping other politicians, which caused the so-called tape scandal in 1995; and while being the mayor of the Estonian capital Tallinn, real-estate deals that were good for the members of the Centre Party, but were bad for the town.<ref name="savisaarrealestate">[http://www.delfi.ee/archive/article.php?id=11378593 Savisaar's and Kruuda's mutual gifts]. Delfi.ee. Retrieved on 4 August 2011.</ref>
Savisaar was one of the most controversial politicians in Estonia. While some people, including many from the Russian-speaking minority, saw him as a defender of the poor, his political opponents accused him of authoritarianism, nepotism, corruption, destructive intrigues, and having close ties with some Russian politicians. The latter accusation was fuelled by the Centre Party's collaboration agreement with [[Vladimir Putin|Putin's]] [[United Russia]] party, particularly since the agreement's content was not made public. Savisaar was often associated with using [[Machiavelli#Machiavellian|Machiavellian]] politics and deals to achieve his goals, such as taping other politicians, which caused the so-called tape scandal in 1995; and while being the mayor of the Estonian capital Tallinn, real-estate deals that were good for the members of the Centre Party, but were bad for the town.<ref name="savisaarrealestate">[http://www.delfi.ee/archive/article.php?id=11378593 Savisaar's and Kruuda's mutual gifts]. Delfi.ee. Retrieved on 4 August 2011.</ref>


=== Tape scandal ===
=== Tape scandal ===
On September 22, 1995, a tape scandal broke out in Estonia when Edgar Savisaar was accused of secretly recording political consultations with Prime Minister Tiit Vähi and the chairman of the Reform Party, Siim Kallas, after the 1995 parliamentary elections.
On 22 September 1995, a tape scandal broke out in Estonia when Edgar Savisaar was accused of secretly recording political consultations with Prime Minister Tiit Vähi and the chairman of the Reform Party, Siim Kallas, after the 1995 parliamentary elections.


The scandal began with audio cassettes found during a search. Conversations between politicians were recorded there. As a result of the tape scandal, the coalition government of KMÜ and the Center Party collapsed and KMÜ chose the Reform Party as a new coalition partner. Savisaar denied the allegations. Vilja Laanaru, Savisaar's assistant at the time, took over the responsibility for recording.<ref name="HEuye">[http://www.cs.ioc.ee/~tanel/foorum/teemad/jalgimine/siaaru2.html Eradetektiivibüroos SIA korraldatud läbiotsimisel ilmnenud asjaolude väljaselgitamiseks moodustatud Riigikogu Erikomisjoni aruanne 17.10.1995–10.06.1996]</ref>
The scandal began with audio cassettes found during a search. Conversations between politicians were recorded there. As a result of the tape scandal, the coalition government of KMÜ and the Center Party collapsed and KMÜ chose the Reform Party as a new coalition partner. Savisaar denied the allegations. Vilja Laanaru, Savisaar's assistant at the time, took over the responsibility for recording.<ref name="HEuye">{{Cite web |url=http://www.cs.ioc.ee/~tanel/foorum/teemad/jalgimine/siaaru2.html |title=Eradetektiivibüroos SIA korraldatud läbiotsimisel ilmnenud asjaolude väljaselgitamiseks moodustatud Riigikogu Erikomisjoni aruanne 17.10.1995–10.06.1996 |access-date=14 April 2022 |archive-date=7 February 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090207015944/http://www.cs.ioc.ee/~tanel/foorum/teemad/jalgimine/siaaru2.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>


=== Bronze Night and riots ===
=== Bronze Night and riots ===
During the events surrounding the [[Bronze Soldier]], Edgar Savisaar spoke out against the removal of the monument and accused [[Andrus Ansip]] of deliberate attempts of splitting the Estonian society by provoking the Russian minority.<ref name="splitter">[http://postimees.ee/300407/esileht/arvamus/257922.php Lõhestaja number üks] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071006120354/http://www.postimees.ee/300407/esileht/arvamus/257922.php|date=6 October 2007}} Postimees</ref> In response to this many government officials and public figures have stated distrust and disrespect towards him.<ref name="paetdistrust">[http://www.postimees.ee/290407/esileht/siseuudised/257861.php Paet: Savisaar ei aita kaasa rahu tagamisele linnas] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070501030616/http://www.postimees.ee/290407/esileht/siseuudised/257861.php|date=1 May 2007}}. Postimees.ee. Retrieved on 4 August 2011.</ref><ref name="pojadistrust">[http://www.postimees.ee/290407/esileht/siseuudised/257768.php Peeter Oja: Savisaar on silmakirjalik ja valelik] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070501013023/http://www.postimees.ee/290407/esileht/siseuudised/257768.php|date=1 May 2007}}. Postimees.ee. Retrieved on 4 August 2011.</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=30 April 2007 |title=Rein Kilk: Savisaare loidus üllatas |language=et |publisher=Delfi |url=http://www.delfi.ee/news/paevauudised/eesti/article.php?id=15715954 |access-date=1 May 2007}}</ref>
During the events surrounding the [[Bronze Soldier]], Edgar Savisaar spoke out against the removal of the monument and accused [[Andrus Ansip]] of deliberate attempts of splitting the Estonian society by provoking the Russian minority.<ref name="splitter">[http://postimees.ee/300407/esileht/arvamus/257922.php Lõhestaja number üks] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071006120354/http://www.postimees.ee/300407/esileht/arvamus/257922.php|date=6 October 2007}} Postimees</ref> In response to this many government officials and public figures stated distrust and disrespect towards him.<ref name="paetdistrust">[http://www.postimees.ee/290407/esileht/siseuudised/257861.php Paet: Savisaar ei aita kaasa rahu tagamisele linnas] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070501030616/http://www.postimees.ee/290407/esileht/siseuudised/257861.php|date=1 May 2007}}. Postimees.ee. Retrieved on 4 August 2011.</ref><ref name="pojadistrust">[http://www.postimees.ee/290407/esileht/siseuudised/257768.php Peeter Oja: Savisaar on silmakirjalik ja valelik] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070501013023/http://www.postimees.ee/290407/esileht/siseuudised/257768.php|date=1 May 2007}}. Postimees.ee. Retrieved on 4 August 2011.</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=30 April 2007 |title=Rein Kilk: Savisaare loidus üllatas |language=et |publisher=Delfi |url=http://www.delfi.ee/news/paevauudised/eesti/article.php?id=15715954 |access-date=1 May 2007}}</ref>


In relation to his reactions to the Bronze Soldier controversy, the [[Estonian Patriotic Movement]] created on 29 April 2007 an [[online petition]] website www.mahasavisaar.com to suggest resignation of Savisaar's position as the Mayor of [[Tallinn]].<ref>[http://ekre.ee/wp-content/rahvuslikliikumine/savisaare%20vastaste%20l6plik%20arv.htm Savisaare vastaste lõplik arv - 96678] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029210803/http://ekre.ee/wp-content/rahvuslikliikumine/savisaare%20vastaste%20l6plik%20arv.htm|date=29 October 2013}} rahvuslikliikumine.ee</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=30 April 2007 |title=Savisaare vastu antud tuhandeid allkirju |language=et |publisher=Delfi |url=http://www.delfi.ee/news/paevauudised/eesti/article.php?id=15713331 |access-date=1 May 2007}}</ref> It ended on 9 May 2007 and had collected 98,200 e-mail addresses (not signatures, although organizers of petition claimed so). In 2009 being a candidate for EP elections collected a 103506 votes in closed list system
In relation to his reactions to the Bronze Soldier controversy, the [[Estonian Patriotic Movement]] created on 29 April 2007 an [[online petition]] website www.mahasavisaar.com to suggest resignation of Savisaar's position as the Mayor of [[Tallinn]].<ref>[http://ekre.ee/wp-content/rahvuslikliikumine/savisaare%20vastaste%20l6plik%20arv.htm Savisaare vastaste lõplik arv - 96678] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029210803/http://ekre.ee/wp-content/rahvuslikliikumine/savisaare%20vastaste%20l6plik%20arv.htm|date=29 October 2013}} rahvuslikliikumine.ee</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=30 April 2007 |title=Savisaare vastu antud tuhandeid allkirju |language=et |publisher=Delfi |url=http://www.delfi.ee/news/paevauudised/eesti/article.php?id=15713331 |access-date=1 May 2007}}</ref> It ended on 9 May 2007 and had collected 98,200 e-mail addresses (not signatures, although organizers of petition claimed so). In 2009 being a candidate for EP elections collected 103506 votes in closed list system.


=== Allegations of receiving Russian money ===
=== Allegations of receiving Russian money ===
10-11 In May 2010, Edgar Savisaar and Vladimir Velman, a member of the Riigikogu Central Group, visited Moscow, where the visit of Vladimir Jakunin, the head of the Russian Railways, to Estonia was agreed.
On 10–11 May 2010, Edgar Savisaar and Vladimir Velman, a member of the Riigikogu Central Group, visited Moscow, where the visit of Vladimir Jakunin, the head of the Russian Railways, to Estonia was agreed.


23-24 Vladimir Jakunin's visit to Estonia took place in June. On the morning of June 24, a boat trip was organized for the guests in the Gulf of Tallinn. During the amusement ride, Jakunin informed Borodich, who had also come to Estonia, of the fact that "the requested three will not be received, but will be 1.5".
On 23-24 Vladimir Jakunin's visit to Estonia took place in June. On the morning of 24 June, a boat trip was organized for the guests in the Gulf of Tallinn. During the amusement ride, Jakunin informed Borodich, who had also come to Estonia, of the fact that "the requested three will not be received, but will be 1.5".


During the cultural program, they visited the Kiltsi manor complex in Lääne-Virumaa. In the manor complex, Edgar Savisaar, Deniss Borodich, Vladimir Bushushev, Sergei Petrov and Vladimir Yakunin separated for a conversation. During the conversation, Jakunin said that 1.5 million euros will be given to the Center Party to support the Estonian parliamentary elections. 1/3 of it is given in cash, 2/3 by transfer invoices. Jakunin also reminded all participants that no one should talk about the transaction anywhere. During the conversation, Petrov on the one hand and Borodich on the other were appointed as the persons responsible for the transfer and legalization of money.
During the cultural program, they visited the Kiltsi manor complex in Lääne-Virumaa. In the manor complex, Edgar Savisaar, Denis Borodich, Vladimir Bushushev, Sergei Petrov and Vladimir Yakunin separated for a conversation. During the conversation, Jakunin said that 1.5 million euros will be given to the Center Party to support the Estonian parliamentary elections. 1/3 of it is given in cash, 2/3 by transfer invoices. Jakunin also reminded all participants that no one should talk about the transaction anywhere. During the conversation, Petrov on the one hand and Borodich on the other were appointed the persons responsible for the transfer and legalization of money.


On September 13, during the visit of Edgar Savisaar and Denis Borodich to Moscow, a dinner was held at the residence of the Russian Railways, which was attended by Yakunin, Bushushev, Borodich and Savisaar. Several topics were discussed during the dinner. Among other things, the following were discussed: the financing of the Lasnamäe church, the course of the church's construction work, the timing of the various stages of the construction work in connection with the forthcoming Riigikogu elections, their connection to the elections; how can Russia, at the official level, by sending its representatives, support the holding of the Congress of Rural People organized by the Center Party in Estonia. In addition to the above, the financing scheme of the Center Party was also discussed at dinner. Edgar Savisaar confirmed what was agreed in Kiltsi manor: 1/3 in cash and 2/3 by transfer, admitting that paying the entire amount in cash would also be solvable. Subsequently, Jakunin demanded full respect in future dealings with each other, referring to his long-term operational experience. The requirement was a total ban on the use of telephones to discuss the allocation of funds, to arrange meetings and on other sensitive issues.
On 13 September, during the visit of Edgar Savisaar and Denis Borodich to Moscow, a dinner was held at the residence of the Russian Railways, which was attended by Yakunin, Bushushev, Borodich and Savisaar. Several topics were discussed during the dinner. Among other things, the following were discussed: the financing of the Lasnamäe church, the course of the church's construction work, the timing of the various stages of the construction work in connection with the forthcoming Riigikogu elections, their connection to the elections; how can Russia, at the official level, by sending its representatives, support the holding of the Congress of Rural People organized by the Center Party in Estonia. In addition to the above, the financing scheme of the Center Party was also discussed at dinner. Edgar Savisaar confirmed what was agreed in Kiltsi manor: 1/3 in cash and 2/3 by transfer, admitting that paying the entire amount in cash would also be solvable. Subsequently, Jakunin demanded full respect in future dealings with each other, referring to his long-term operational experience. The requirement was a total ban on the use of telephones to discuss the allocation of funds, to arrange meetings and on other sensitive issues.


During a conversation with KAPO on 3 November, Savisaar's attention was drawn to the possibility of complicity with him and the party related to asking for money from abroad and to the resulting security threats. On November 4, KAPO officials conducted a similar conversation with Borodich, who had been on holiday so far. On November 6, 2010, a telephone conversation took place between Savisaar and Jakunin, where the need to sign a tripartite agreement to legalize money allocated for the support of Lasnamäe Church and to prevent a possible scandal was discussed. On November 26, 2010, the financing agreement for Lasnamäe Church was signed. To this end, Vladimir Bushuev arrived in Tallinn from Moscow, accompanied by an agreement signed by the President of the Andrei Pervozvanny Foundation, Sergei Shcheblygin, in Moscow. Jevgeni Tomberg collected the signatures of the agreement from the representatives of the Tallinn City Government and MPEÕK. The next day, Mayor Edgar Savisaar presented the agreement to the Tallinn City Government.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Edgar Savisaar tahab kohtu kaudu Vene mõjuagendi mainest vabaneda |url=https://epl.delfi.ee/a/67544616 |access-date=2022-04-14 |website=Eesti Päevaleht}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=ÜLEVAADE PILDIS: Edgar Savisaare elu võimaliku mõjuagendina |url=https://www.delfi.ee/a/37210125 |access-date=2022-04-14 |website=Delfi}}</ref>
During a conversation with KAPO on 3 November, Savisaar's attention was drawn to the possibility of complicity with him and the party related to asking for money from abroad and to the resulting security threats. On 4 November, KAPO officials conducted a similar conversation with Borodich, who had been on holiday so far. On 6 November 2010, a telephone conversation took place between Savisaar and Jakunin, where the need to sign a tripartite agreement to legalize money allocated for the support of Lasnamäe Church and to prevent a possible scandal was discussed. On 26 November 2010, the financing agreement for Lasnamäe Church was signed. To this end, Vladimir Bushuev arrived in Tallinn from Moscow, accompanied by an agreement signed by the President of the Andrei Pervozvanny Foundation, Sergei Shcheblygin, in Moscow. Jevgeni Tomberg collected the signatures of the agreement from the representatives of the Tallinn City Government and MPEÕK. The next day, Mayor Edgar Savisaar presented the agreement to the Tallinn City Government.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Edgar Savisaar tahab kohtu kaudu Vene mõjuagendi mainest vabaneda |url=https://epl.delfi.ee/a/67544616 |access-date=14 April 2022 |website=Eesti Päevaleht}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=ÜLEVAADE PILDIS: Edgar Savisaare elu võimaliku mõjuagendina |url=https://www.delfi.ee/a/37210125 |access-date=14 April 2022 |website=Delfi}}</ref>


=== Bribery allegations ===
=== Bribery allegations ===
On 17 July 2015, [[Estonian Internal Security Service]] launched a criminal investigation on Savisaar and six others in relation to bribery allegations. He is suspected of accepting bribes with a value of hundreds of thousands of euros in 2014 and 2015 on behalf of himself and [[Estonian Centre Party]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Savisaar named suspect in bribery case |date=22 September 2015 |publisher=ERR|url=http://news.err.ee/v/politics/bd2685cb-2efe-4d7c-ac33-c26c09f9cf3d/savisaar-named-suspect-in-bribery-case |access-date=30 September 2015}}</ref> It was later revealed that Savisaar was also suspected of corruption and money laundering.<ref>{{cite news |title=Savisaar suspected of corruption, money laundering, accepting illegal political donations |date=17 March 2016 |publisher=ERR|url=http://news.err.ee/v/news/dac0aa45-4253-46ae-9080-c241d5c9b91a/savisaar-suspected-of-corruption-money-laundering-accepting-illegal-political-donations|access-date=18 March 2016}}</ref> Because of the ongoing investigation, Savisaar was suspended from mayor's office on 30 September 2015.<ref>{{cite news |title=Savisaar suspended from mayor's office |date=30 September 2015 |publisher=ERR|url=http://news.err.ee/v/politics/2b68a0b6-7636-4070-8389-f9751d5874a4/savisaar-suspended-from-mayors-office|access-date=30 September 2015}}</ref> His original trial commenced in Harju County Court in June 2017.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.err.ee/601848/savisaar-s-mental-faculties-enable-him-to-stand-trial-expert-says|title=Savisaar's mental faculties enable him to stand trial, expert says|date=13 June 2017|work=Eesti Rahvusringhääling}}</ref> The county court ended the proceedings in June 2018 due to Savisaar's medical condition,<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.err.ee/837162/court-closes-savisaar-case-due-to-defendant-s-illness| title=Court closes Savisaar case due to defendant's illness |work=Eesti Rahvusringhääling |date=5 June 2018}}</ref> however in August a higher circuit court ordered for the trial to resume.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.err.ee/853764/second-tier-court-overturns-termination-of-savisaar-trial |title=Second-tier court overturns termination of Savisaar trial |work=Eesti Rahvusringhääling |date=14 August 2018}}</ref> In December 2018, the Supreme Court of Estonia annulled the ruling of the circuit court, thus releasing Savisaar from criminal proceedings.<ref name="court">{{cite news| url=https://news.err.ee/886714/savisaar-freed-from-trial-by-supreme-court |title=Savisaar freed from trial by Supreme Court |publisher=ERR |date=21 December 2018 |access-date= 22 December 2018}}</ref>
On 17 July 2015, [[Estonian Internal Security Service]] launched a criminal investigation on Savisaar and six others in relation to bribery allegations. He is suspected of accepting bribes with a value of hundreds of thousands of euros in 2014 and 2015 on behalf of himself and [[Estonian Centre Party]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Savisaar named suspect in bribery case |date=22 September 2015 |publisher=ERR|url=http://news.err.ee/v/politics/bd2685cb-2efe-4d7c-ac33-c26c09f9cf3d/savisaar-named-suspect-in-bribery-case |access-date=30 September 2015}}</ref> It was later revealed that Savisaar was also suspected of corruption and money laundering.<ref>{{cite news |title=Savisaar suspected of corruption, money laundering, accepting illegal political donations |date=17 March 2016 |publisher=ERR|url=http://news.err.ee/v/news/dac0aa45-4253-46ae-9080-c241d5c9b91a/savisaar-suspected-of-corruption-money-laundering-accepting-illegal-political-donations|access-date=18 March 2016}}</ref> Because of the ongoing investigation, Savisaar was suspended from mayor's office on 30 September 2015.<ref>{{cite news |title=Savisaar suspended from mayor's office |date=30 September 2015 |publisher=ERR|url=http://news.err.ee/v/politics/2b68a0b6-7636-4070-8389-f9751d5874a4/savisaar-suspended-from-mayors-office|access-date=30 September 2015}}</ref> His original trial commenced in Harju County Court in June 2017.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.err.ee/601848/savisaar-s-mental-faculties-enable-him-to-stand-trial-expert-says|title=Savisaar's mental faculties enable him to stand trial, expert says|date=13 June 2017|work=Eesti Rahvusringhääling}}</ref> The county court ended the proceedings in June 2018 due to Savisaar's medical condition,<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.err.ee/837162/court-closes-savisaar-case-due-to-defendant-s-illness| title=Court closes Savisaar case due to defendant's illness |work=Eesti Rahvusringhääling |date=5 June 2018}}</ref> however in August a higher circuit court ordered the trial to resume.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.err.ee/853764/second-tier-court-overturns-termination-of-savisaar-trial |title=Second-tier court overturns termination of Savisaar trial |work=Eesti Rahvusringhääling |date=14 August 2018}}</ref> In December 2018, the Supreme Court of Estonia annulled the ruling of the circuit court, thus releasing Savisaar from criminal proceedings.<ref name="court">{{cite news| url=https://news.err.ee/886714/savisaar-freed-from-trial-by-supreme-court |title=Savisaar freed from trial by Supreme Court |publisher=ERR |date=21 December 2018 |access-date= 22 December 2018}}</ref>


=== Statements in support of EKRE ===
=== Statements in support of EKRE ===
After [[Jüri Ratas]] formed [[Jüri Ratas' second cabinet|a coalition government]] with [[Conservative People's Party of Estonia|EKRE]], scandals started to follow due to statements and actions made and done by the then-party leader and Interior Minister [[Mart Helme]] and his son [[Martin Helme]]. After being asked to comment on EKRE, Savisaar deflected to the media and accused the news media of stirring up controversy against EKRE, saying "Too much damage is being done to EKRE"<ref>{{Cite web |title=19.08.19 - Edgar Savisaar: EKRE-le tehakse liiga {{!}} Tallinna TV |url=https://tallinnatv.eu/index.php/klipp/14009/190819-edgar-savisaar-ekre-le-tehakse-liiga |access-date=2022-04-14 |website=tallinnatv.eu}}</ref>
After [[Jüri Ratas]] formed [[Jüri Ratas' second cabinet|a coalition government]] with [[Conservative People's Party of Estonia|EKRE]], scandals started to follow due to statements and actions made and done by the then-party leader and Interior Minister [[Mart Helme]] and his son [[Martin Helme]]. After being asked to comment on EKRE, Savisaar deflected to the media and accused the news media of stirring up controversy against EKRE, saying "Too much damage is being done to EKRE".<ref>{{Cite web |title=19.08.19 - Edgar Savisaar: EKRE-le tehakse liiga {{!}} Tallinna TV |url=https://tallinnatv.eu/index.php/klipp/14009/190819-edgar-savisaar-ekre-le-tehakse-liiga |access-date=14 April 2022 |website=tallinnatv.eu}}</ref>


=== Joining an anti-vaccination party ===
=== Joining an anti-vaccination party ===
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== Personal life ==
== Personal life ==
Edgar Savisaar has been married three times and is the father of four children.<ref name=gov-edgar/> From his marriage to Kaire Savisaar he has a son [[Erki Savisaar]], who is a Centre Party a politician.<ref name="Poeg">{{cite web |url=https://ekspress.delfi.ee/artikkel/71089717/erki-savisaar-me-seisame-isaga-samade-vaartuste-eest?|title=Erki Savisaar: "Me seisame isaga samade väärtuste eest!|first=Kristjan|last=Pihl|work=[[Eesti Ekspress]]|date=24 March 2015|accessdate=6 February 2021|language=et}}</ref> From his marriage to Liis Remmel (then Liis Savisaar), he has a daughter Maria and son Erki.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ohtuleht.ee/261294/savisaare-naised-abikaasad-ustavad-jungrid-ja-noorukesed-wannabe-d|title=Savisaare naised - abikaasad, ustavad jüngrid ja noorukesed wannabe 'd|website=www.ohtuleht.ee|access-date=7 August 2017}}</ref> The last marriage was to [[Vilja Toomast]] (then Vilja Savisaar), who is also an Estonian politician. They had a daughter, Rosina. The couple announced their separation and divorce in December 2009.
Edgar Savisaar married three times and was the father of four children.<ref name=gov-edgar/> From his marriage to Kaire Savisaar he had a son [[Erki Savisaar]], who is a Centre Party politician.<ref name="Poeg">{{cite web |url=https://ekspress.delfi.ee/artikkel/71089717/erki-savisaar-me-seisame-isaga-samade-vaartuste-eest|title=Erki Savisaar: "Me seisame isaga samade väärtuste eest!|first=Kristjan|last=Pihl|work=[[Eesti Ekspress]]|date=24 March 2015|accessdate=6 February 2021|language=et}}</ref> From his marriage to Liis Remmel (then Liis Savisaar), he had a daughter Maria and son Edgar.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ohtuleht.ee/261294/savisaare-naised-abikaasad-ustavad-jungrid-ja-noorukesed-wannabe-d|title=Savisaare naised - abikaasad, ustavad jüngrid ja noorukesed wannabe 'd|website=www.ohtuleht.ee|access-date=7 August 2017}}</ref> The last marriage was to [[Vilja Toomast]] (then Vilja Savisaar), who is also an Estonian politician. They had a daughter, Rosina. The couple announced their separation and divorce in December 2009.


== Death ==
== Death ==
In March 2015, Savisaar was hospitalized due to an infection of [[Streptococcus]] bacteria in his right leg which had to be [[amputation|amputated]] above the knee. He contracted the disease during a trip in [[Thailand]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Center Party leader Edgar Savisaar critically ill with an infection, leg amputated above the knee |url=http://news.err.ee/v/politics/a4647c6f-7291-4003-8ce3-d25af2cf97fc |access-date=25 March 2015 |website=err.ee}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Edgar Savisaare jalg amputeeriti - Uudised - Tartu Postimees |url=http://tartu.postimees.ee/3132097/edgar-savisaare-jalg-amputeeriti |access-date=13 August 2016 |publisher=tartu.postimees.ee}}</ref>
In March 2015, Savisaar was hospitalized due to an infection of [[streptococcus]] bacteria in his right leg which had to be [[amputation|amputated]] above the knee. He contracted the disease during a trip in Thailand.<ref>{{cite web |title=Center Party leader Edgar Savisaar critically ill with an infection, leg amputated above the knee |url=http://news.err.ee/v/politics/a4647c6f-7291-4003-8ce3-d25af2cf97fc |access-date=25 March 2015 |website=err.ee|date=23 March 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Edgar Savisaare jalg amputeeriti - Uudised - Tartu Postimees |date=23 March 2015 |url=http://tartu.postimees.ee/3132097/edgar-savisaare-jalg-amputeeriti |access-date=13 August 2016 |publisher=tartu.postimees.ee}}</ref>


Savisaar's health never recovered from the event. In 2018 Savisaar was freed from political corruption trial as court determined him seriously ill and thus unable to stand trial or carry a punishment if convicted.<ref name="court"/>
Savisaar's health never recovered from the event. In 2018 Savisaar was freed from political corruption trial as court determined him seriously ill and thus unable to stand trial or carry a punishment if convicted.<ref name="court"/>


Savisaar died on 29 December 2022, at the age of 72.<ref>{{cite web |title=Suri Edgar Savisaar |url=https://www.err.ee/1608834343/suri-edgar-savisaar |website=err.ee |publisher=ERR |access-date=29 December 2022 |language=et |date=29 December 2022}}</ref>
Savisaar died on 29 December 2022, at the age of 72.<ref>{{cite web |title=Suri Edgar Savisaar |url=https://www.err.ee/1608834343/suri-edgar-savisaar |website=err.ee |publisher=ERR |access-date=29 December 2022 |language=et |date=29 December 2022}}</ref>

A state funeral was held for Savisaar at the Concert Hall of the [[Estonia Theatre]] in central Tallinn.<ref>{{Cite web |last=ERR |date=2023-01-03 |title=Decision on state funerals made on case-by-case basis |url=https://news.err.ee/1608838378/decision-on-state-funerals-made-on-case-by-case-basis |access-date=2023-01-15 |website=ERR |language=en}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
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[[Category:People from Harku Parish]]
[[Category:People from Harku Parish]]
[[Category:Estonian Centre Party politicians]]
[[Category:Estonian Centre Party politicians]]
[[Category:Prime Ministers of Estonia]]
[[Category:Prime ministers of Estonia]]
[[Category:Members of the Riigikogu, 1992–1995]]
[[Category:Members of the Riigikogu, 1992–1995]]
[[Category:Members of the Riigikogu, 1995–1999]]
[[Category:Members of the Riigikogu, 1995–1999]]
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[[Category:Members of the Riigikogu, 2007–2011]]
[[Category:Members of the Riigikogu, 2007–2011]]
[[Category:Mayors of Tallinn]]
[[Category:Mayors of Tallinn]]
[[Category:Left-wing populists]]
[[Category:Estonian people of Russian descent]]
[[Category:Estonian people of Russian descent]]
[[Category:Leaders of political parties in Estonia]]
[[Category:Leaders of political parties in Estonia]]
[[Category:People of the Singing Revolution]]
[[Category:People of the Singing Revolution]]
[[Category:Resigned Communist Party of the Soviet Union members]]
[[Category:University of Tartu alumni]]
[[Category:University of Tartu alumni]]
[[Category:Estonian amputees]]
[[Category:Estonian amputees]]
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[[Category:Recipients of the Order of the National Coat of Arms, 2nd Class]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Order of the National Coat of Arms, 2nd Class]]
[[Category:Estonian independence activists]]
[[Category:Estonian independence activists]]
[[Category:20th-century Estonian politicians]]
[[Category:21st-century Estonian politicians]]
[[Category:Members of the Riigikogu, 2015–2019]]
[[Category:Members of the Riigikogu, 2015–2019]]
[[Category:Politicians with disabilities]]

Latest revision as of 12:21, 15 December 2024

Edgar Savisaar
Savisaar in 2013
1st Prime Minister of the Interim Government of Estonia
In office
20 August 1991 – 29 January 1992
PresidentArnold Rüütel
as Chairman of the Supreme Soviet (1990)
as Chairman of the Supreme Council (1990–1992)
Preceded byposition established
Otto Tief
as last acting Prime Minister in 1944
Succeeded byTiit Vähi
Minister of the Interior
In office
12 April 1995 – 10 October 1995
Preceded byKaido Kama
Succeeded byMärt Rask
Mayor of Tallinn
In office
9 April 2007 – 30 September 2015
Preceded byJüri Ratas
Succeeded byTaavi Aas
In office
2 December 2001 – 10 October 2004
Preceded byTõnis Palts
Succeeded byTõnis Palts
Minister of Economic Affairs and Communications
In office
12 April 2005 – 5 April 2007
Prime MinisterAndrus Ansip
Preceded byAndrus Ansip
Succeeded byJuhan Parts
Personal details
Born(1950-05-31)31 May 1950
Harku, Estonia
Died29 December 2022(2022-12-29) (aged 72)
Tallinn, Estonia
Political partyCommunist Party (1983–1988)
Popular Front (1988–1991)
Centre Party (1991–2022)
Spouse
(m. 1996; div. 2009)
Children4, including Erki Savisaar
Alma materUniversity of Tartu

Edgar Savisaar (31 May 1950 – 29 December 2022) was an Estonian politician, one of the founding members of Popular Front of Estonia and the Centre Party. He served as the acting Prime Minister of Estonia, Minister of the Interior, Minister of Economic Affairs and Communications, and twice mayor of Tallinn.

Early life and education

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Savisaar was born in the Harku Prison in 1950. His parents Elmar Savisaar (1911–1970) and Marie Savisaar née Burešin (1912–1984) were farmers from Vastse-Kuuste, Tartu County, who both had been convicted in 1949 of resisting collectivization. The events, which had culminated with physical conflict, had started when kolhoz activists came to nationalise Savisaar couple's two cows (named Marja and Oksa), a pig, a horse drawn hay rake, a spring-tooth harrow, and other farming equipment. Elmar was sentenced to 15 years and Marie to 5 years in prison.[1] In the autumn of 1950, Marie was released from prison under an amnesty and returned to Vastse-Kuuste with her son.[2] In 1952, Elmar was acquitted of one of the offences, and the sentence for the second episode was reduced to 2.5 years, which was deemed to have been served, and he was released from prison.[1]

After graduating from high school, Savisaar continued his studies at the University of Tartu. In 1973, he graduated from the university with a degree in history. In 1980, he wrote his candidate thesis in philosophy on the topic "Social Philosophical Foundations of the Global Models of the Club of Rome".[3]

Career

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From 1980 to 1988, Savisaar worked in the Soviet Estonian governmental institutions dealing with planning of the economy. During 1988–1989, he was the academic director for the consultancy firm "Mainor".

In April he co-established the Popular Front (Rahvarinne) which became the first mass political organization in the Soviet Union outside of the Communist Party since 1920. Initially formed to support perestroika, the Popular Front eventually developed ideas of Estonian national independence. This process among several others led to dissolution of the Soviet Union.

In 1989, he became the vice-chairman of the Council of Ministers of Estonian SSR and the Head of the State Planning Committee. In 1990, he was the Minister of Economic Affairs. On 3 April 1990, he was appointed the Chairman of the Council of Ministers. When Estonia declared independence on 20 August 1991, he became the first Prime Minister of the Republic of Estonia. His government was in office until 29 January 1992, when he resigned after supplementary problems and a continuing decline in economy. Most of his governing time was characterized by hyperinflation and ever increasing deficit of goods. "Purchase cards" and ration stamps were introduced. During the winter of 1991/1992 preparations were made to evacuate the dormitory regions of Tallinn due to shortage of fuel. On 31 December 1991, people stood for hours in the bread queues, many were eventually left without bread. In January 1992, butter disappeared from the shops. Savisaar managed to win a vote of non-confidence, being mostly supported by his Popular Front, left-wing parties and the Intermovement, but stepped down when it turned out impossible to introduce a state of emergency. He was replaced by a technocratic government under Tiit Vähi.

From 1992 until 1995, Savisaar was the Vice-Speaker of the Estonian Parliament (Riigikogu). From 17 April to 6 November 1995, he was the Minister for Internal Affairs. When he was accused of recording private conversations of other politicians, the entire government faltered. Although his participation in the recordings was never proved, he announced his intention to leave politics. However, in 1996, he participated in the local municipalities elections and became the chairman of the Tallinn City Council. His return to the Centre Party leader's post evoked a split, as some leading members disillusioned with Savisaar's leadership style left to found Arengupartei. From 2001 to 14 October 2004, he was mayor of Tallinn. On 11 April 2005, he became Minister of Economic Affairs and Communications in the new coalition of Prime Minister Andrus Ansip and worked in the post until March 2007. Since 2007 he has been mayor of Tallinn, the capital of Estonia.

Edgar Savisaar and Estonia People's Union leader Villu Reiljan jointly supported Arnold Rüütel's candidature for presidency in August–September 2006; Toomas Hendrik Ilves was elected though, a choice criticised by Savisaar and attributed by him to alleged hostile media and partisan lawmakers.[4] Savisaar refused to congratulate the winner.[5]

In 2016, the discussion on electing a new leader escalated in the Centre Party and an extraordinary party congress was called for November.[6] MP Jüri Ratas was the first to announce his candidacy, after which four others followed, including Yana Toom.[7] Even though Savisaar first announced his candidacy, he later announced that he would not participate in the leadership election and instead endorsed Toom.[8]

Savisaar published four books. He received the Order of the National Coat of Arms 2nd Class in 2001[9] and 1st Class in 2006[10] from Estonia and the Order of the Three Stars 2nd Class in 2005 from Latvia.[11]

Controversy

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Savisaar giving an interview during the 2006 presidential election

Savisaar was one of the most controversial politicians in Estonia. While some people, including many from the Russian-speaking minority, saw him as a defender of the poor, his political opponents accused him of authoritarianism, nepotism, corruption, destructive intrigues, and having close ties with some Russian politicians. The latter accusation was fuelled by the Centre Party's collaboration agreement with Putin's United Russia party, particularly since the agreement's content was not made public. Savisaar was often associated with using Machiavellian politics and deals to achieve his goals, such as taping other politicians, which caused the so-called tape scandal in 1995; and while being the mayor of the Estonian capital Tallinn, real-estate deals that were good for the members of the Centre Party, but were bad for the town.[12]

Tape scandal

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On 22 September 1995, a tape scandal broke out in Estonia when Edgar Savisaar was accused of secretly recording political consultations with Prime Minister Tiit Vähi and the chairman of the Reform Party, Siim Kallas, after the 1995 parliamentary elections.

The scandal began with audio cassettes found during a search. Conversations between politicians were recorded there. As a result of the tape scandal, the coalition government of KMÜ and the Center Party collapsed and KMÜ chose the Reform Party as a new coalition partner. Savisaar denied the allegations. Vilja Laanaru, Savisaar's assistant at the time, took over the responsibility for recording.[13]

Bronze Night and riots

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During the events surrounding the Bronze Soldier, Edgar Savisaar spoke out against the removal of the monument and accused Andrus Ansip of deliberate attempts of splitting the Estonian society by provoking the Russian minority.[14] In response to this many government officials and public figures stated distrust and disrespect towards him.[15][16][17]

In relation to his reactions to the Bronze Soldier controversy, the Estonian Patriotic Movement created on 29 April 2007 an online petition website www.mahasavisaar.com to suggest resignation of Savisaar's position as the Mayor of Tallinn.[18][19] It ended on 9 May 2007 and had collected 98,200 e-mail addresses (not signatures, although organizers of petition claimed so). In 2009 being a candidate for EP elections collected 103506 votes in closed list system.

Allegations of receiving Russian money

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On 10–11 May 2010, Edgar Savisaar and Vladimir Velman, a member of the Riigikogu Central Group, visited Moscow, where the visit of Vladimir Jakunin, the head of the Russian Railways, to Estonia was agreed.

On 23-24 Vladimir Jakunin's visit to Estonia took place in June. On the morning of 24 June, a boat trip was organized for the guests in the Gulf of Tallinn. During the amusement ride, Jakunin informed Borodich, who had also come to Estonia, of the fact that "the requested three will not be received, but will be 1.5".

During the cultural program, they visited the Kiltsi manor complex in Lääne-Virumaa. In the manor complex, Edgar Savisaar, Denis Borodich, Vladimir Bushushev, Sergei Petrov and Vladimir Yakunin separated for a conversation. During the conversation, Jakunin said that 1.5 million euros will be given to the Center Party to support the Estonian parliamentary elections. 1/3 of it is given in cash, 2/3 by transfer invoices. Jakunin also reminded all participants that no one should talk about the transaction anywhere. During the conversation, Petrov on the one hand and Borodich on the other were appointed the persons responsible for the transfer and legalization of money.

On 13 September, during the visit of Edgar Savisaar and Denis Borodich to Moscow, a dinner was held at the residence of the Russian Railways, which was attended by Yakunin, Bushushev, Borodich and Savisaar. Several topics were discussed during the dinner. Among other things, the following were discussed: the financing of the Lasnamäe church, the course of the church's construction work, the timing of the various stages of the construction work in connection with the forthcoming Riigikogu elections, their connection to the elections; how can Russia, at the official level, by sending its representatives, support the holding of the Congress of Rural People organized by the Center Party in Estonia. In addition to the above, the financing scheme of the Center Party was also discussed at dinner. Edgar Savisaar confirmed what was agreed in Kiltsi manor: 1/3 in cash and 2/3 by transfer, admitting that paying the entire amount in cash would also be solvable. Subsequently, Jakunin demanded full respect in future dealings with each other, referring to his long-term operational experience. The requirement was a total ban on the use of telephones to discuss the allocation of funds, to arrange meetings and on other sensitive issues.

During a conversation with KAPO on 3 November, Savisaar's attention was drawn to the possibility of complicity with him and the party related to asking for money from abroad and to the resulting security threats. On 4 November, KAPO officials conducted a similar conversation with Borodich, who had been on holiday so far. On 6 November 2010, a telephone conversation took place between Savisaar and Jakunin, where the need to sign a tripartite agreement to legalize money allocated for the support of Lasnamäe Church and to prevent a possible scandal was discussed. On 26 November 2010, the financing agreement for Lasnamäe Church was signed. To this end, Vladimir Bushuev arrived in Tallinn from Moscow, accompanied by an agreement signed by the President of the Andrei Pervozvanny Foundation, Sergei Shcheblygin, in Moscow. Jevgeni Tomberg collected the signatures of the agreement from the representatives of the Tallinn City Government and MPEÕK. The next day, Mayor Edgar Savisaar presented the agreement to the Tallinn City Government.[20][21]

Bribery allegations

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On 17 July 2015, Estonian Internal Security Service launched a criminal investigation on Savisaar and six others in relation to bribery allegations. He is suspected of accepting bribes with a value of hundreds of thousands of euros in 2014 and 2015 on behalf of himself and Estonian Centre Party.[22] It was later revealed that Savisaar was also suspected of corruption and money laundering.[23] Because of the ongoing investigation, Savisaar was suspended from mayor's office on 30 September 2015.[24] His original trial commenced in Harju County Court in June 2017.[25] The county court ended the proceedings in June 2018 due to Savisaar's medical condition,[26] however in August a higher circuit court ordered the trial to resume.[27] In December 2018, the Supreme Court of Estonia annulled the ruling of the circuit court, thus releasing Savisaar from criminal proceedings.[28]

Statements in support of EKRE

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After Jüri Ratas formed a coalition government with EKRE, scandals started to follow due to statements and actions made and done by the then-party leader and Interior Minister Mart Helme and his son Martin Helme. After being asked to comment on EKRE, Savisaar deflected to the media and accused the news media of stirring up controversy against EKRE, saying "Too much damage is being done to EKRE".[29]

Joining an anti-vaccination party

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For the 2021 Estonian municipal elections, Savisaar joined an electoral alliance called Vaba Eesti (Free Estonia) which had been accused of being anti-vaccination in its platform. Savisaar rejected the attacks, however, saying on Facebook "In my opinion, they are not some kind of anti-vaccine party, but they have a wide platform, starting with Estonia's internal affairs and ending with their attitude towards the European Union. I'm vaccinated and happy with that. But I am opposed to it being forced with dismissal from work. I hope that the problem of vaccination will remain temporary. The loss of human freedoms is a more far-reaching threat". The statement was slammed by people from his old Centre Party as well as other parties, with one of his previously closest allies Priit Toobal saying in September on his Facebook page "The electoral alliance you have been dragged into is not serious. Even on April 3 that you posted a snippet of text and a video clip right here on Facebook, where you can't rule out that vaccination should have been introduced, but now you're in the same room with the anti-vaxxers".

Personal life

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Edgar Savisaar married three times and was the father of four children.[3] From his marriage to Kaire Savisaar he had a son Erki Savisaar, who is a Centre Party politician.[30] From his marriage to Liis Remmel (then Liis Savisaar), he had a daughter Maria and son Edgar.[31] The last marriage was to Vilja Toomast (then Vilja Savisaar), who is also an Estonian politician. They had a daughter, Rosina. The couple announced their separation and divorce in December 2009.

Death

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In March 2015, Savisaar was hospitalized due to an infection of streptococcus bacteria in his right leg which had to be amputated above the knee. He contracted the disease during a trip in Thailand.[32][33]

Savisaar's health never recovered from the event. In 2018 Savisaar was freed from political corruption trial as court determined him seriously ill and thus unable to stand trial or carry a punishment if convicted.[28]

Savisaar died on 29 December 2022, at the age of 72.[34]

A state funeral was held for Savisaar at the Concert Hall of the Estonia Theatre in central Tallinn.[35]

References

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  1. ^ a b "Savisaare vanemad pandi vangi, sest nad protestisid kolhoosi vastu [Savisaar's parents jailed for protesting against the kolkhoz]". ekspress.delfi.ee. Retrieved 29 December 2015.
  2. ^ [Enno Tammer. The Power of Memory, pp 21, 3]
  3. ^ a b "Edgar Savisaar". biography. web site of The Government of the Republic of Estonia. Retrieved 14 February 2007.
  4. ^ "Edgar Savisaar seab kahtluse alla riigikohtu erapooletuse - Arhiiv - Postimees: Värsked uudised Eestist ja välismaalt". postimees.ee. 23 September 2006. Retrieved 13 August 2016.
  5. ^ Postimees: Edgar Savisaar seab kahtluse alla riigikohtu erapooletuse Archived 7 September 2012 at archive.today. Postimees.ee. Retrieved on 4 August 2011.
  6. ^ "Savisaar agrees to extraordinary Center Party congress". ERR. 14 September 2016. Retrieved 4 November 2016.
  7. ^ "Ratas to run for chairman of Center Party, Ernits for party council chair". ERR. 12 October 2016. Retrieved 4 November 2016.
  8. ^ "Savisaar won't attend Center Party congress, asks to vote for Toom". Postimees. 4 November 2016. Retrieved 4 November 2016.
  9. ^ "Bearers of decorations". president.ee. Retrieved 2 January 2014.
  10. ^ "Bearers of decorations". president.ee. Retrieved 2 January 2014.
  11. ^ "Ar Triju Zvaigžņu ordeni apbalvoto personu reģistrs apbalvošanas secībā, sākot no 2004. gada 1.oktobra". president.lv (in Latvian). p. 14. Archived from the original (DOC) on 10 May 2013. Retrieved 2 January 2014.
  12. ^ Savisaar's and Kruuda's mutual gifts. Delfi.ee. Retrieved on 4 August 2011.
  13. ^ "Eradetektiivibüroos SIA korraldatud läbiotsimisel ilmnenud asjaolude väljaselgitamiseks moodustatud Riigikogu Erikomisjoni aruanne 17.10.1995–10.06.1996". Archived from the original on 7 February 2009. Retrieved 14 April 2022.
  14. ^ Lõhestaja number üks Archived 6 October 2007 at the Wayback Machine Postimees
  15. ^ Paet: Savisaar ei aita kaasa rahu tagamisele linnas Archived 1 May 2007 at the Wayback Machine. Postimees.ee. Retrieved on 4 August 2011.
  16. ^ Peeter Oja: Savisaar on silmakirjalik ja valelik Archived 1 May 2007 at the Wayback Machine. Postimees.ee. Retrieved on 4 August 2011.
  17. ^ "Rein Kilk: Savisaare loidus üllatas" (in Estonian). Delfi. 30 April 2007. Retrieved 1 May 2007.
  18. ^ Savisaare vastaste lõplik arv - 96678 Archived 29 October 2013 at the Wayback Machine rahvuslikliikumine.ee
  19. ^ "Savisaare vastu antud tuhandeid allkirju" (in Estonian). Delfi. 30 April 2007. Retrieved 1 May 2007.
  20. ^ "Edgar Savisaar tahab kohtu kaudu Vene mõjuagendi mainest vabaneda". Eesti Päevaleht. Retrieved 14 April 2022.
  21. ^ "ÜLEVAADE PILDIS: Edgar Savisaare elu võimaliku mõjuagendina". Delfi. Retrieved 14 April 2022.
  22. ^ "Savisaar named suspect in bribery case". ERR. 22 September 2015. Retrieved 30 September 2015.
  23. ^ "Savisaar suspected of corruption, money laundering, accepting illegal political donations". ERR. 17 March 2016. Retrieved 18 March 2016.
  24. ^ "Savisaar suspended from mayor's office". ERR. 30 September 2015. Retrieved 30 September 2015.
  25. ^ "Savisaar's mental faculties enable him to stand trial, expert says". Eesti Rahvusringhääling. 13 June 2017.
  26. ^ "Court closes Savisaar case due to defendant's illness". Eesti Rahvusringhääling. 5 June 2018.
  27. ^ "Second-tier court overturns termination of Savisaar trial". Eesti Rahvusringhääling. 14 August 2018.
  28. ^ a b "Savisaar freed from trial by Supreme Court". ERR. 21 December 2018. Retrieved 22 December 2018.
  29. ^ "19.08.19 - Edgar Savisaar: EKRE-le tehakse liiga | Tallinna TV". tallinnatv.eu. Retrieved 14 April 2022.
  30. ^ Pihl, Kristjan (24 March 2015). "Erki Savisaar: "Me seisame isaga samade väärtuste eest!". Eesti Ekspress (in Estonian). Retrieved 6 February 2021.
  31. ^ "Savisaare naised - abikaasad, ustavad jüngrid ja noorukesed wannabe 'd". www.ohtuleht.ee. Retrieved 7 August 2017.
  32. ^ "Center Party leader Edgar Savisaar critically ill with an infection, leg amputated above the knee". err.ee. 23 March 2015. Retrieved 25 March 2015.
  33. ^ "Edgar Savisaare jalg amputeeriti - Uudised - Tartu Postimees". tartu.postimees.ee. 23 March 2015. Retrieved 13 August 2016.
  34. ^ "Suri Edgar Savisaar". err.ee (in Estonian). ERR. 29 December 2022. Retrieved 29 December 2022.
  35. ^ ERR (3 January 2023). "Decision on state funerals made on case-by-case basis". ERR. Retrieved 15 January 2023.
[edit]
Political offices
Preceded by Prime Minister of the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic
1990–1991
Position abolished
Vacant
Title next held by
Otto Tief
Prime Minister of Estonia
1991–1992
Succeeded by
Preceded by Minister of the Interior
1995
Succeeded by
Preceded by Mayor of Tallinn
2001–2004
Succeeded by
Preceded by Minister of Economic Affairs and Communications
2005–2007
Succeeded by
Preceded by Mayor of Tallinn
2007–2015
Succeeded by