"The Centre's place is in opposition. The people have spoken," Prime Minister Kiviniemi told a gathering of supporters in Helsinki late Sunday evening.
However, Kiviniemi said that she does not intend to resign the chairmanship of the Centre, despite the party's losses at the polls.
"I don't intend to throw in the towel. These are longer-term projects."
Kiviniemi said that she believes that voter support for the Centre was especially eroded by two consecutive stints in charge of the Prime Minister's portfolio and the tough decisions made during that time.
"The people have said what they want and we have to accept it," stated Kiviniemi.
