Joensuulu politician Outi Mara says she faces repeated harassment during campaign events

Outi Mara, a city councillor in Joensuu for the Finns Party, reported a man spat at her during a campaign event on Saturday, prompting a police report.

The incident occurred at a Finns Party tent where state finance minister Riikka Purra was scheduled to speak. Mara said the man shouted criticism of the party before attempting to spit at her.

Mara told Yle she has faced ongoing harassment over her political views for years, including having a tent deliberately collapsed on her at one event.

She called on local politicians to condemn such behaviour and improve safety at campaign sites.

“People are welcome to challenge our views, but they don’t need to insult or abuse us,” Mara said.

Police had not received the report by Monday morning.