Temporary committee decides against recommending dismissal of Ilkka Sasi from Tampere City Council

A temporary committee has decided not to recommend the dismissal of Deputy Mayor Ilkka Sasi from the Tampere City Council. The committee met to discuss this matter on Tuesday. Initially, the committee proposed Sasi’s removal from his position but ultimately decided to table the issue for further consideration. Sasi will have the opportunity to provide a written explanation regarding the loss of confidence that led to the call for his dismissal, with a deadline set for September 10.

Sasi was under suspicion for sexual harassment and alcohol-related offenses, which were alleged to have occurred in December of last year in Tampere. Last week, the regional prosecutor Joni Köykkä announced the decision not to file charges against Sasi, stating that there was insufficient evidence to support claims of guilt.

The temporary committee emphasized that its deliberations were not about investigating criminal accusations but rather assessing whether the Deputy Mayor still enjoys the council’s trust. Nevertheless, the committee acknowledges the need to evaluate the potential impact of the decision not to pursue charges on the perception of Sasi’s trustworthiness going forward.