Politician Antti Pekola defies party resignation amidst controversy over homosexuality in Pori

Antti Pekola, a politician from Pori who has recently stirred controversy with his comments on homosexuality, plans to continue his involvement in church politics. Pekola gained national attention after urging adherence to a biblical verse that prescribes death as a punishment for homosexuality on the text message column of the newspaper Satakunnan Kansa Länsi-Suomi. Following his remarks, the Satakunta branch of the National Coalition Party announced that Pekola would resign from the party and all positions appointed through it.

Mikko Kivinen, the chair of Pekola’s previous association, stated that Pekola would also relinquish his municipal church leadership roles. However, Pekola has now expressed his intention to retain his seat on the Joint Council of Porin Kirkkovaltuusto and the Central Pori Congregation Council, claiming these roles are not directly associated with the National Coalition Party, despite the group’s name. He mentioned that he could resign if he chose, but intends to remain in his positions for the current electoral term.

Pekola clarified that his controversial remarks were motivated by what he considers the core message of the Bible, arguing that crucial biblical passages should be followed, specifically referencing Leviticus 20:13, which condemns male homosexuality.

The Bishop of Turku, Mari Leppänen, condemned Pekola’s statements, declaring they are not acceptable and emphasizing the need for church representatives to act honorably. On another front, the human rights organization Seta reported that it has filed a police complaint against Pekola for incitement against a population group, an allegation Pekola denies.