May Day speeches indicate political divisions

Political divisions were evident as leaders of different parties gave their speeches on the May Day, locally called Vappu Day.

The speeches were paid more than usual attention as alternatives for a new coalition government remain wide open.

Polarization over the climate policies increased as Antti Lindtman, the chair of the Suomen Sosialidemokraattinen Puolue (Social Democratic Party of Finland-SDP) parliamentary caucus, assured that the party would definitely finance the infrastructure required for a major new biomass plant in Kemi.

Vihreä liitto (Green League) chairman Pekka Haavisto reiterated his demand that the forest industry, as a whole, should bear its responsibility for the environment.

Observers noted that the possibility looms that the Vihreä could remain outside the cabinet if the forest industry issue persists. It is believed that any increased use of wood would further reduce the forest carbon sink.

Besides, the SDP leader Antti Rinne assured he would keep his promise of an increase in lowest pensions. Addressing crowds at the Helsinki Railroad Square, he also said a thousand more doctors would be hired to primary health care to shorten the waiting queues.

His party winning the leading position as the biggest party in the parliament, Rinne is currently assigned with the task to negotiate a ruling coalition within this month.

Jussi Halla-aho, chairman of the populist Perussuomalaiset, criticized the Finnish system of forming coalitions. "Even parties almost totally opposed in their programs can become allies in a coalition. This reduces the impact of the vote of an individual citizen."

Halla-aho said that the Swedish system where parties form blocks in advance is better as voters know which kind of government they are voting for.

He also noted the refusal of many parties to exclude one party in advance is problematic. He was referring to the reluctance of many Finnish parties to stand along with Perussuomalaiset in the coalition.

Antti Kaikkonen, the chair of Suomen Keskusta (Centre Party of Finland) parliamentary group spoke in Hyvinkää and Helsinki. Kaikkonen said he would like to improve the livelihood of poorer families with children and pensioners, reported National broadcaster Yle.

Li Andersson, the chair of Vasemmistoliitto (Left Alliance), in her speech spoke strongly against tax evasion and tax havens. The main message in her speech was that Finland needs hope and future policies, said the Yle report.