After the 2003 election, the Centre and Res Publica parties nearly tied for first place, with both saying that they should get the chance to try and form the next government, while ruling out any deal between themselves. President Rüütel had to decide who he should nominate as Prime Minister and therefore be given the first chance at forming a government.
In the aftermath of the 2003 election, the Centre and Res Publica parties were neck and neck in terms of first place, with both asserting that they should have the opportunity to try their hand at governing, while ruling out any potential alliance between them. The President Rüütel had to make a decision on who he would nominate as Prime Minister, thereby securing the first chance to form a government.