Kokoomus ministers on Orpo's writing: Finns Party must handle internally

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has called on the Finns Party to conduct an internal review of controversial social media comments made by Member of Parliament Mauri Peltokangas. Orpo made these remarks during a press conference at the Kokoomus party's ministerial group's summer meeting in Tampere.

Orpo stressed that while the government's internal work is proceeding smoothly, individual behavior is another matter. "If people do not know how to behave, speak inappropriately, or in a way that cannot be accepted and is not fitting for a Member of Parliament. We do not accept that in Kokoomus, and in this case, it is the Finns Party's task to address this matter," Orpo stated.

“

If people do not know how to behave, speak inappropriately, or in a way that cannot be accepted and is not fitting for a Member of Parliament. We do not accept that in Kokoomus, and in this case, it is the Finns Party's task to address this matter.

The controversy arose when Peltokangas questioned his Facebook followers about whether they wanted an "Afkaan-Muslim" as an interior or foreign minister in the next term. This was widely interpreted as a reference to Sdp's Nasima Razmyar, the only MP of Afghan origin. Peltokangas, however, denies targeting anyone specifically.

When asked about the government's next steps if the Finns Party fails to address the issue, Orpo deferred to Kokoomus parliamentary group leader Jukka Kopra. Kopra indicated that Kokoomus awaits the Finns Party's process before deciding on further action. The government has recently been embroiled in discussions about racism, highlighting ongoing tensions within the coalition.

“

Let's see if there is a need to return to the matter.