Kaljulaid was prepared to discuss matters, meet with factions. Kaljulaid, who has lived between Luxembourg and Estonia for the past 12 years, happened to be in Estonia. Whether it really was a coincidence is another question. Heads of several parties had regularly called two-three people, including Kaljulaid, after each failed attempt to elect the president to ask them to remain in Estonia and keep their cell phone charged.

Kersti Kaljulaid's name came up in several parties (IRL, social democrats, Free Party) in spring when potential presidential candidates were first seriously discussed.

Kaljulaid, still Estonia's representative at the European Court of Auditors at the time due to political indecisiveness, reacted unequivocally: her name can be mentioned in connection with the presidential election provided she has 68 votes in the parliament. While many-times minister, diplomat Jüri Luik has been seen as a potential president for years, it was clear already in spring that he lacks support from major parties.

Farewell, Luxembourg!

After the first meeting of the Council of Elders on Monday of last week, it was clear that the Reform Party, IRL, and the Free Party prefer Luik, while the social democrats (SDE) support Kaljulaid.

Because the Conservative People's Party (EKRE) explicitly ruled Luik out, while only the Center Party neither supporter nor ruled out Kaljulaid, it was clear Kaljulaid is the only one with hope to win the majority in the Riigikogu.

Chairman of the Riigikogu Eiki Nestor (SDE) called Kaljulaid after another meeting on Tuesday and said the council supports her bid. That she has the necessary 68 votes to be elected and more. This did not suit the Reform Party that wanted more time to make a decision, meet again with Kaljulaid on Tuesday evening and on Wednesday. After the meeting, the party had little choice but to support the parliament's favorite.

Kaljulaid flew to Luxembourg to say goodbye to colleagues on Thursday. Confidence, conviction, and faith in being elected president ran very high.

When she returned Friday afternoon, she continued giving interviews and making herself available, spurred on by the general nobody-knows-her atmosphere.