The Finnish municipal elections will take place on the 13th of June, 2021. The candidates number for the election are expected to be out within two weeks from now. There has been different election panels aimed at encouraging voters participation. Last Saturday, Anthony Okuogume participated in the election panel organized by Diaspora Reporters ry where he spoke about his manifesto and why he is running for the election. He is based in Tornio, a city and municipality in Lapland, Finland. The city forms a cross-border twin city together with Haparanda on the Swedish side.
1. Please introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Anthony Okuogume from Nigeria. I have been living in Finland for about 38 years. My education includes; a Masters and licentiate (PhD) in International management, postgraduate certificate in International business strategy from the London school of economics, professional teachers certificate
2. Why did you decide to pursue a career in politics?
I have been in politics for 18yrs. I didn’t go into it to build a career but to influence what is happening in my community. Also to show in my community that immigrants have a voting power too and to encourage immigrants like me to exercise that power
3. You have been a member of the National Coalition Party for many years and you have occupied different positions. Could you share your experiences with us?
I have been a reserved city council member for 8yrs, member of different city committees and member of the city waterboard, education board and Edukai , also I was a candidate for the 2003 parliamentary election. I have been a board member of the local chapter of the party organization for over 15yrs in the cities that I have lived in.
4. What do you cherish most about your community?
Life on the Border, everything is near, Don’t feel foreign here and I feel safe
5. Help us understand the type of leader you will be by describing your two highest priorities for change in your community, in the short and long term.
To be an active member of your local community. You can do a lot irrespective of your position in the community
6. What is your perspective on the best ways to collaborate with other levels of government to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for your community?
What we are doing now by being politically active or activity in interest groups. Hard to do it all alone and collective approach is a good idea.
7. For some time now, Nigerians in Finland have not been in the spotlight politically, do you see yourself as the one to change the narrative?
Such change is a long process and everything we do right now is a step towards that goal. I am honoured to be able to contribute to that goal.
8 . Why should we vote for you?
I will promote my election promises irrespective of party lines
9. Any message for the voters from the immigrant background?
VOTE!
