Turku tram project may hinge on Social Democrats’ group vote as at least three members plan to break ranks

The fate of Turku’s controversial tram project could be decided by the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) internal group vote, with at least three party councillors telling national broadcaster Yle they will defy any collective decision to support the €465 million plan.

Turku City Council is set to vote on the tram implementation plan in May, with the ruling SDP the only party considering a binding group position on the issue. A group decision would direct all 16 SDP councillors to vote either for or against the project, with the majority determining the stance.

Councillors Ville Lintunen and Henry Toivari told Yle they would vote against the tram regardless of the group’s decision, citing election promises. A third SDP councillor, who wished to remain anonymous, also confirmed they would break ranks.

“I won’t vote for the tram. I don’t want to betray my voters,” Toivari said. “I campaigned against the tram in the elections, and it was almost my only theme.”

Lintunen called it impossible to vote against his own campaign pledges, adding he doubts the SDP will reach a unified stance due to deep divisions. “I can’t even believe a group decision will happen. The group is split down the middle,” he said.

Both councillors estimate that 3–4 SDP members would oppose the tram under any circumstances. The project’s opponents appear to fear a pro-tram group decision, which could shift the balance in the tightly contested vote.

A February Yle survey found 51% of responding councillors opposed the tram, while 39% supported it. Nearly a third did not disclose their position. Among SDP councillors, only four revealed their stance—three against and one in favour.

SDP group chair Mika Maaskola urged caution, stating that while dissent is part of democracy, he hopes to avoid internal conflict. The group will likely decide on a unified position in April.

Maaskola acknowledged that breaking group discipline could lead to sanctions, ranging from verbal warnings to more severe measures, though he declined to speculate on penalties. Toivari, who was previously expelled from the group for criticising the education board, said he expects repercussions if he defies the party line again.

Lintunen, who received campaign funding from prominent local business figures known for opposing the tram, dismissed concerns about sanctions. “If the group decision is against the tram, will they start punishing the mayor for voting in favour?” he asked.

The tram’s opponents have intensified lobbying efforts, with the anti-tram campaign Ratikkavaalit urging councillors to ignore group discipline in the vote.