Finland Presidential Election: Niinisto Re-elected

Helsinki: With almost all ballots counted, Finnish incumbent president Sauli Niinisto was re-elected in Sunday's presidential election.

Niinisto won 62 per cent of the votes as a total of 98 per cent of ballots were counted. Talking to the media when the victory was certain, Niinisto said he was surprised with the result. He said he believed the people were satisfied with him, Xinhua reported.

Green party candidate Pekka Haavisto came the second with 12.4 per cent. Niinisto underlined that he has no intention of becoming a "big leader" of Finland, indicating he does not envisage a greater role, especially in the domestic policies.

The powers of the president in domestic issues have been reduced in recent decades. Latest opinion polls have shown a public desire for more presidential powers again.

Niinisto, 69, will start serving his second term until 2024.

IANS