HELSINKI, 25 March. (DPA/EP) –
The Finnish political class has closed ranks in condemning the aggression, insults and threats suffered by the conservative politician Ben Zyskowicz, who has been harassed by an individual who criticized Finland’s entry into NATO and the Jews. Zyskowicz is the first Jewish member of the Finnish Parliament.
Prime Minister Sanna Marin have condemned the “utterly regrettable” act. “Everyone has the right to campaign in peace and without threats or violence. An attack against a candidate is an attack on democracy,” she said.
The president, Sauli Niinistö, has also condemned the incident, which occurred a week before the next Finnish legislative elections scheduled for April 2. The assailant has been subdued and arrested.
The elections coincide with the political turn of events involving the country’s request to join NATO in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
