Finland: Kanerva bribery case begins in court

[emezico]

The bribery case of the National Coalition MP Ilkka Kanerva is going to court on Thursday. Kanerva is suspected of having taken over 50,000 euros worth of bribes.

The prosecution suspects Kanerva of receiving over 50,000 euros from companies planning to build shopping centres in southwest Finland. Kanerva's 60th birthday celebrations three years ago also arouse suspicions of bribery.

Kanerva is accused of bribe-taking and a breach of duty, while four businessmen—Tapani Yli-Saunamäki, Arto Merisalo, Kyösti Kakkonen and Toivo Sukari—are are accused of bribing the MP.
The prosecution demands prison sentences of minimum two years for Kanerva, a year and four months for Sukari, a year and eight months for Merisalo and Yli-Saunamäki, and seven months for Kakkonen.

The accused deny all charges.

The case is being considered by the Helsinki District Court.



Source: Yle