Presidential Election 2012

This is not the most interesting topic for me usually, but interestingly despite of my busy study schedule, I spent 30mins watching YLE 1 to see who will finally take position for the next 6 years. One of the key reasons is, I am curious to know if the country will choose a man based on his sexuality preference or based on his capabilities.... 6 years ago, President Halonen was selected despite she is a female, proven the nation is open minded to consider candidates based on merits, experiences than gender.

This time, Niinistö won with just over 60% with 69,9% of the nation participated in the second round voting. The lower turn-out is expected since many of the voters did not have a clear choice to choose from... however, Pekka with almost 40% voters is still a significant achievement in my opinion, hence proven that this nation is very open-minded..... Equal opportunity is not just an espoused value but an enacted value practised by many. In any event, this is a fair election and the outcome is the majority voices of the people in this country!

BIG Congrats to the nation for their choice and I hope the new president will take good care of his people!

Photo source: Ilta-lehti Finland