Thousands of citizens and communities have expressed their sympathy in the books of condolence for President Martti Ahtisaari at the Presidential Palace and online. The books of condolence were opened on Tuesday 17 October 2023 and closed on Friday 20 October. The books will be given to President Ahtisaari’s family.
A total of about 3,800 condolences were left in the condolence book at the Presidential Palace and about 10,200 online. The first to sign the book of condolence at the Presidential Palace were President of the Republic of Finland Sauli Niinistö and his spouse Jenni Haukio.
Books of condolence have been open also in Finnish embassies abroad. Moreover, a significant number of condolences have been sent by letter or expressed through social media.
CMI – Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation has set up a memorial webpage to honour President Ahtisaari’s legacy, which is still open at: cmi.fi/muistamarttia.
The funeral of President Ahtisaari will take place in Helsinki on St Martin’s Day, Friday 10 November. The funeral service will be held at Helsinki Cathedral at 13.00.