Feb 18 • 18:40 UTC 🇫🇮 Finland Ilta-Sanomat

Sofia Virta criticizes newly appointed minister Rydman: "Notoriously inhumane"

Sofia Virta has openly criticized Wille Rydman, the newly appointed Minister of Social Affairs and Health in Finland, for his perceived inhumane political stance and is urging action from the Prime Minister.

Wille Rydman has been appointed as the new Minister of Social Affairs and Health by the Perussuomalaiset (Finns Party), replacing Kaisa Juuso, who recently resigned. Rydman's selection has already sparked criticism, particularly from Sofia Virta, the chair of the Green League, who argues that his approach to social policies is inhumane and promotes inequality. In a press conference following his appointment, Rydman indicated his intention to adhere to planned budget cuts in the health and social sectors, which has drawn immediate backlash from opposition leaders.

Virta's criticism is significant, as she believes the health minister's role is crucial during these challenging times. She has explicitly called for Rydman to cease any preparations for further cuts to health services, expressing her concern that such actions would disproportionately harm vulnerable populations. Furthermore, she has expressed low expectations for Rydman's tenure, citing his past political behavior as detrimental to equitable health policies.

In her statements to the media, Virta has also urged Prime Minister Petteri Orpo to initiate a cross-party process to address the future of Finnish social and health services urgently. This reflects the ongoing political tensions in Finland regarding social welfare allocations and highlights the challenges faced by leaders in balancing fiscal responsibility with the welfare needs of citizens. The outcome of Rydman's policies will likely have lasting implications for the Finnish health care system and social equality.

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