Keski-Pohjanmaa council votes to dismiss chairperson Sari Innanen after loss of confidence

The regional council of the Keski-Pohjanmaa welfare area has voted to remove the leadership of the regional board by a margin of 34 to 23 votes. The decision primarily focused on the position of chairperson Sari Innanen (Center Party), but legally considered the entire leadership team. The initial proposal was made by a temporary committee suggesting the council declare that the board had lost confidence in its leadership and proceed with their dismissal.

Hannu Kippo from the Christian Democrats proposed that the leadership retains the council’s trust, a motion supported by several members, including Pentti Haimakainen (National Coalition Party). Innanen recused herself at the meeting’s start and moved to the back of the room to observe the discussions.

The council meeting saw significant debate with many speaking for and against the leadership’s dismissal. Virpi Ali-Haapala (Christian Democrats), a member of the temporary committee, raised concerns about the committee’s thoroughness and potential bias in its findings. She highlighted that not enough parties were heard, calling the committee’s approach biased against Innanen.

Several council members voiced their support for Innanen, praising her experience and capabilities in managing the region, especially during its financial crisis, while others urged that the decision should not be perceived as personal punishment by her party.

The welfare region faced a surprising budget deficit revealed late January, prompting rapid response and corrective measures from the regional board, leading to the resignation of welfare director Minna Korkiakoski-Västi citing a loss of trust. The committee’s report indicated that there were attempts to prepare personnel dismissals, further complicating Innanen’s situation. The process to remove her began after a motion of no confidence was raised in a crisis meeting by the Center Party, resulting in a 5-2 vote after a six-month investigation.