Minister Zekaj Responds to Director's Departure
Arsim Zekaj, the Health and Social Affairs Minister for the Åland Islands, has publicly stated that the regional government did not request the resignation of Jeanette Pajunen, the Health and Social Affairs Director. Minister Zekaj indicated that the government perceives no wrongdoing in its handling of the situation surrounding Pajunen's departure from Ålands hälso- och sjukvård (ÅHS).
Pajunen's Resignation and Tenure
Jeanette Pajunen resigned from her position as Health and Social Affairs Director with immediate effect on November 28, 2025, after serving for seven years. In a statement to Ålandstidningen, Pajunen cited that her 'measure was full' and that she had 'gotten enough,' attributing her decision to a multitude of factors rather than any specific failure, such as issues with the Cosmic system. Her tenure included leading ÅHS through the COVID-19 pandemic, initiating a new digitalization journey, and advancing a new healthcare information system.
Government's Perspective and Board's Support
Minister Zekaj acknowledged Pajunen's significant contributions, stating that she had 'carried heavy assignments' and that the government had been 'safe with her through the years.' He also noted that the board had expressed high satisfaction with her performance. Sara Kemetter, the Chairman of the ÅHS board, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Pajunen's 'significant efforts' during her time, particularly in leading through the pandemic and modernizing ÅHS.
Context and Related Controversies
Pajunen's leadership was not without challenges. She faced scrutiny regarding the Vårdinformationssystemet (VIS) project, particularly because her husband, Timo Pajunen, served as the project manager. Jeanette Pajunen dismissed any conflict of interest claims, clarifying that the ÅHS IT chief made the hiring decision and that she personally avoids handling matters related to her husband. She also described the VIS project as the 'worst she had driven' in her career. Additionally, some board members criticized a lack of sufficient information regarding the VIS procurement, a claim Pajunen refuted by highlighting numerous board discussions on the system.
Interim Leadership Appointed
Following Pajunen's resignation, Peter Nieminen has been appointed to serve as the interim Health and Social Affairs Director. He will assume the role starting December 1, 2025, while the recruitment process for a permanent successor is underway.
6 Comments
Bella Ciao
No wrongdoing? The VIS project was a mess, and her husband was involved.
Mariposa
While her leadership during the pandemic was undoubtedly crucial, the controversies surrounding the VIS project and potential conflicts of interest cast a shadow. It's tough to reconcile both narratives.
Bermudez
It's clear she carried heavy assignments. Respect her decision.
Muchacho
Seven years of service, including digitalization. She deserves credit.
Coccinella
Minister Zekaj praises her work and says there was no government pressure, which is good to hear. However, a sudden resignation after seven years usually points to deeper issues than just being 'fed up'.
Leonardo
It's commendable that she led the digitalization efforts, but the lack of transparency for board members regarding the VIS procurement is concerning. We need clarity on how such projects are managed.