Central Finland's welfare region faces leadership changes after two top officials resigned. Board chair Maria Kaisa Aula stepped down Sunday following what she called a loss of confidence from political groups.
Aula delivered an emotional speech Tuesday before the regional council. She said she realized something about herself during this process. 'There is something too much in me, in my personality, in my expertise, in my way of working,' Aula told the council. 'Something too different and too enthusiastic.'
She concluded that 'too much is too much' and decided to resign her leadership role. Aula will remain as a regular council member.
The regional council selected Center Party representative Jani Ylälehto as the new board chair. They also opened applications for the welfare region director position vacated by Jan Tollet last week.
This marks a rare double leadership crisis for Central Finland's healthcare system. Tollet submitted his resignation due to confidence issues just days before Aula's departure.
Council members discussed qualifications for the director opening during Tuesday's meeting. Many emphasized the need for proven leadership success given the region's challenges.
Central Finland's welfare region faces serious financial difficulties. The national government placed it under special supervision this summer. This means the region can no longer independently decide on cost-saving measures.
Aula previously told media that criticism directed at her personally had grown too strong. She recognized it was better to leave the position to new people. Pressure to resign came from outside her own political group, though she declined to specify sources.
The situation reveals underlying tensions in Finland's regional governance model. Having two top health officials resign within days suggests deeper organizational issues beyond individual leadership styles.