The Finnish Social Democrats elect a new leader

June 10, 2005

The Finnish have elected the party secretary  as their leader at the party's annual Congress in the city of Jyväskylä.

Other contestants for the post were the foreign minister and the education minister. He was elected with 201 of the 350 possible votes, while Tuomioja got 101 and Haatainen got 11 votes.

The election was required as the current leader, former prime minister and parliament speaker has decided to leave after 12 years at the helm.

Lipponen has also voiced his support for the current strike by the Finnish Paperworker's union over pay. He said "You are in a truly difficult position. Moderation is your strength. We support you."

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