Seven council members in Kittilä call for review of Mayor Timo Kurula’s recent conviction

In Kittilä, seven municipal council members are calling for a thorough review of the conviction of Mayor Timo Kurula. During a meeting yesterday, the council acknowledged Kurula’s recent court sentence. The seven council members have signed a motion to establish a temporary committee aimed at dismissing the mayor. The signatories belong to the Just Kittilä group, as well as the Greens and the National Coalition Party.

Inkeri Yritys from the Just Kittilä group argues that the municipal board must address the motion and provide justification for it. “It’s significant enough that it cannot be overlooked without a thorough discussion,” she said.

Aki Nevalainen, the council chair, expressed disappointment that the matter was not expedited. “Those who declared that the mayor no longer enjoys their confidence stated they didn’t want to vote on this issue at this meeting. I find it puzzling that they prefer a longer process, especially with local elections approaching,” Nevalainen remarked. He reiterated that Kurula still has his trust, adding, “If there had been a vote, I would have supported Kurula, but that vote was not requested.”

In September, the Supreme Court convicted Kurula of attempted fraud, breach of official duties, and abuse of position concerning financial matters involving Kittilä’s decision-makers. Kurula received an 80-day suspended prison sentence. Last year, he was also sentenced to 60 days of conditional imprisonment for abuse of office, during which time he served as the chairman of the municipal board.

The legal issues surrounding Kittilä have persisted for over a decade, with ongoing cases still under judicial review.