Esko Rautiaisen, the municipal director of Rääkkylä, will end his term in office as reported by the municipality in a statement. According to the municipality, his departure was by mutual agreement, with Rautiaisen resigning effective February 23rd. The issue began in spring 2024 when he received a warning for inappropriate messaging on social media, specifically that a second warning would result in his termination. Despite previous warnings, Rautiaisen continued to send sexually suggestive messages to women on Threads last autumn.

In light of continued concerns regarding his communications, Rautiaisen was urged to resign towards the end of the year, with threats of dismissal looming if he refused. Despite this pressure, he did not comply with the request to resign. The municipal council has decided to open the application process for a new municipal director during their next meeting, while a temporary director will oversee the role until a new appointment is made.

For the interim, the council appointed Raita Joutsensaari, who has been acting in the director's position during Rautiaisen's leave of absence. The situation highlights the challenges faced in local governance, particularly concerning personal conduct and its implications for public trust and administrative integrity within municipal leadership.