On 13 April, Finland held local elections to elect all representatives of the country’s 21 regional councils and 308 municipal councils.
ALDE Party member Keskusta won 2,623 seats in municipal councils, the most out of any party in Finland, registering an increase of 178 members thanks to a 16.4% support of the popular vote.
The party also improved its position in regional elections, increasing its representation to 304 seats thanks to a 19.4% vote share, and becoming the most popular party in nine Finnish regions.
Keskusta leader Antti Kaikkonen celebrated the electoral win highlighting the party candidates’ successful strategy on the ground, focusing on local services for people, well-being and safety, growth and jobs.
“The result shows that there is a demand for the message of the Centre Party. We want to create a brighter outlook for the future. We stand up for local services, kindergartens, schools, health services and care for the elderly in this country. We want to get growth going and Finland's wheels turning. The work begins now,” said Kaikkonen.
ALDE Party member SFP also made gains in both elections, remaining the largest party in both the Eastern Uusimaa and Ostrobothnia regions and many other municipalities.
SFP retain 453 seats in municipal councils and 71 members in regional councils, thanks to a vote share of 4.7% and 5% respectively.
SFP leader and Finland’s Minister of Education Anders Adlercreutz showed his pride at the level of support received, and looks forward to working towards the next goals.
“SFP's good election results show that the need for bridge building is greater than ever. Our list of candidates was young, diverse, multilingual and multifaceted - just like Finland today. That is our strength. It is not a coincidence, but a result of our values. Now the important work in municipalities and welfare areas begins. And we do it together, across language borders, for the whole of Finland,” said Adlercreutz.
Photo: Keskusta / SFP