He told YLE parliamentary party bosses even recommended persons to whom the funds should be given. His revelations come just before Centre party leaders are due to give their explanation on party funding.
Former Prime Minister and ex Centre Party Chairman Matti Vanhanen has distanced himself from discussions of party involvement in the campaign finding furore. However, Merisalso reiterated claims the former Prime Minister approved acceptance of the funds from the KMS organisation.
Prime Minister Mari Kiviniemi has countered the new claims saying Merisalo is lying. His accusations were also denied by senior figures in the National Coalition and Social Democratic Parties. SDP parliamentary Group Chair, Eero Heinäluoma said he never met or had any dealings with Merisalo prior to the last election.
The former Nova real estate development firm, of which Merisalo was CEO, channeled thousands of euros to KMS, an organization supporting political candidates, despite its poor state of finances. Cash was passed on to several parties, primarily the Centre and National Coalition.
