The Christian Democrats say they plan to nominate first-term parliamentarian Mika Poutala as the next Minister of Youth, Sport and Physical Activity, taking over from current Swedish People's Party minister Sandra Bergqvist in 2025.
During government formation talks the Christian Democrats and Swedish People's Party — both junior partners in the coalition — agreed to share the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Physical Activity portfolio for the government's latter two years.
The Christian Democrats currently have one government minister, their party chair, Sari Essayah, who is the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry.
The 41-year-old Poutala, a former top athlete, has speedskated for Finland in several Olympic games. Like party leader Essayah, Poutala is a member of the Pentecostal faith. In 2020, he told the Christian news site Seurakuntalainen that he reads the Bible and prays daily.
On the policy front, he has called for conscription reforms to expand the call-up to include women and incorporate a comprehensive health exam.
Poutala's nomination will be formalised on 30 November, following a joint meeting by the Christian Democratic Party council and parliamentary group.