The country may have its 13th president from the ranks of the Greens as the country makes preparations for the presidential elections in January 2024, according to fresh poll results.
The president is elected by a direct vote for a six-year term and the same person can be elected for no more than two consecutive terms. Therefore, the incumbent president Sauli Niinistö is no longer allowed to run. The duties of the president are mainly related to foreign policy. According to the constitution, the country’s foreign policy is directed by the president in cooperation with the government. However, the position holds considerable informal and personal influence.
In a new poll, coming on top with 25% support was Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto. A long-time member of the Green parliamentary group, Haavisto has received visibility and praise for his actions during the Ukrainian war and in Finland’s NATO application process.
Past and present achievements in Brussels and elsewhere abroad do not always seem to hold ground. Witnessing his star status fading was the two-time EU Commissioner and current governor of the Bank of Finland Olli Rehn. After being the most favoured candidate less than a year ago, Rehn’s popularity has dropped to 14%.
Alexander Stubb, currently a professor at the European University Institute, whose previous titles include MEP, vice president of the European Investment Bank, and prime minister gathered 6% support.
Jutta Urpilainen, International Partnerships Commissioner, received 2% of support.
But, these are still early days. Neither a single person nor a party has so far officially announced candidacies. Except for the Chair of the Movement Now Harry Harkimo, a one-man party in the parliament with 1.8% support.
Prime Minister Sanna Marin has stated she has no intention to run for president.
(Pekka Vänttinen | EURACTIV.com)
Source: euractiv.com
