The Finns Party announced today, Friday, the resignation of Economy Minister Wilhelm Junnila, just ten days after he assumed office, following accusations of repeatedly using Nazi references in his statements. Junnila stated in a statement: "For the continuation of the government and the reputation of Finland, I believe that it is impossible for me to continue in my position as a minister in a satisfactory manner."
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo highlighted that Junnila made "the right and only possible decision," after the revelations about his statements. He added: "This made it impossible for him to continue in the position, and it was not good for the government or for Finland," noting that he condemns all forms of extremism and racism. During his election campaign, Finnish Broadcasting Company (Yle) reported Junnila congratulating a party member for his nomination number, which was 88, a well-known symbol of neo-Nazism used as an alternative to Hitler's famous salute "Heil Hitler," referring to the number as "definitely a winning card." He later apologized for the way he worded that congratulation.
