Finland’s PM undergoes a drug test after being called out for her partying
After public outcry to footage of her dancing and singing with pals this week, Finland’s prime minister said on Friday that she had done a drug test.
Sanna Marin told reporters on Friday, “I consider these accusations to be very serious, and, though I consider the demand for a drug test unjust, for my own legal protection and to clear up any doubts, I have taken a drug test today, the results of which will come in about a week,” The results of the test are expected to be released in about a week.
Two private films of her partying and conduct were leaked, and this prompted criticism. In them, Marin can be seen dancing and singing with her friends, who include Finnish celebrities and Finnish pop star Olavi Uusivirta.
According to Yle, a Finnish news agency, Marin admitted that she was aware she was being videotaped but said that the footage was meant to be kept secret.
“I am upset that these videos have become public,” Marin said. “It was about me having a night out with friends. Partying — even in a boisterous way — dancing and singing.”
The prime minister had earlier stated that all she had consumed were alcoholic beverages.
Calls for a drug test came from members of opposition parties. Some social media users have attacked the prime minister for his actions, while others have applauded him. This is not the first time someone has made a remark about Marin’s actions outside of the office.
The 36-year-old is often seen in photographs taken at music festivals sporting a leather jacket and a pair of ripped denim shorts. While some have questioned her professionalism, others have praised her for being approachable and able to strike a good work-life balance.
It has not all been celebrations during her term in office. In 2019, Marin became the youngest prime minister in Finland’s history after being elected to the role. During her tenure as leader, the country has seen a global pandemic, coped with its neighbour Russia’s initiation of a conflict in Ukraine, and is now on the cusp of joining NATO alongside Sweden.