Antti Lindtman has announced his intention to run for the leadership of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), becoming the first candidate to enter the race to replace outgoing party chair, Sanna Marin.
Lindtman — who has been chair of the SDP's parliamentary group since 2015 — announced his bid during a Facebook live stream broadcast on Monday morning.
"Today is a bright morning and a good day to tell you this important news. I have decided to run for the Social Democratic Party nomination," Lindtman said, adding that one of the main reasons behind his decision was the number of people who have prompted him to run.
"Thank you for the many messages of support and encouragement I have received. The answer is yes," he said.
Lindtman has been a MP since April 2011, representing the region of Uusimaa. He is also the chair of Vantaa city council.
Yle understands that several other prominent members of the party are still considering whether or not to enter the race, with outgoing Minister of European Affairs Tytti Tuppurainen and outgoing Minister of Social Services Krista Kiuru among their number.
Former Deputy Mayor of Helsinki Nasima Razmyar as well as outgoing Minister of Transport and Communications Timo Harakka and MEP Miapetra Kumpula-Natria are also understood to be considering a bid for the leadership of the party.
The party's third vice-chair Matias Mäkynen has already announced that he will not be throwing his hat into the ring to replace Marin.
The next leader of the party will be decided at the SDP's congress in Jyväskylä in September.
The SDP will also elect a new party secretary at the meeting, as Antton Rönnholm has announced he is leaving the party.
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