Garden Helsinki scandal deepens – Professor Petteri Orpo's explanation: 'Quite strange' 07.07.2026

The scandal regarding state aid for the Garden Helsinki project has deepened, as it has been revealed that Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has failed to disclose essential information regarding the background of the aid decision. Emeritus Professor of Criminal and Procedural Law Pekka Viljanen has assessed the situation from the perspective of corruption suspicions and states that the primary responsibility for investigating the scandal lies with the Prime Minister, although all ministers involved in the decision have a duty to do so. Viljanen emphasizes that an immediate stance from the Chancellor of Justice is needed regarding the project's state aid, and that documents related to the project should be made public, with the exception of trade secrets. Political pressure on Orpo has grown intense, and Minja Koskela, among others, has demanded the Prime Minister's resignation. The Greens question the information provided by Orpo, as inconsistencies have been observed in the situation. The case has sparked widespread debate regarding the government's actions and transparency.














