Committee recommends dismissal of Deputy Mayor Ilkka Sasi from Tampere City Council

A temporary committee has decided to recommend the dismissal of Deputy Mayor Ilkka Sasi from the Tampere City Council. The decision was unanimous, according to committee chair Mikko Aaltonen.

The committee’s role was to assess the deputy mayor’s trustworthiness after he was implicated in allegations of sexual harassment and alcohol-related offenses. These actions were reportedly suspected to have occurred in December of last year in Tampere. In August, the regional prosecutor, Joni Köykkä, decided not to charge Sasi, concluding there was insufficient evidence to support the allegations.

Despite not being charged, the committee believes Sasi has lost the council’s trust due to his behavior and the negative publicity associated with the city and its publicly organized events.

The committee had previously tabled the matter during its September 3 meeting, allowing Sasi a chance to respond. Although there was discussion about his testimony, the committee found no points that would alter their stance.

The issue will now be addressed by the Tampere City Council in its upcoming meeting next Monday, although it is uncertain if it will be included in the agenda.

Sasi expressed his regret regarding the situation, stating he has acted in the city’s best interest by refraining from commenting while the process is ongoing. He also asserted that his removal should not be based on unfounded allegations against an innocent deputy mayor. However, the committee remains unconvinced and suggests he retain his position until a replacement is appointed.