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Erik Ninn-HansenDanish politician
Date of Birth: 01.01.1922
Country:  Denmark |
Content:
- Erik Ninn-Hansen: A Politician and Controversial Figure
- Minister of Justice and the Tamil Affair
- Legal Prosecution and Conviction
- Connection to Another Investigation
- Post-Political Career
Erik Ninn-Hansen: A Politician and Controversial Figure
Early Career and Ministerial RolesErik Ninn-Hansen, a prominent Danish politician, served in the cabinet of Hilmar Baunsgaard, initially as Minister of Defense and later as Minister of Finance. In the early 1970s, he became the leader of the Conservative People's Party. However, the party's performance under his leadership was lackluster, suffering its worst electoral results in history during the 1973 and 1975 elections.
Minister of Justice and the Tamil Affair
In the 1980s, Ninn-Hansen assumed the role of Minister of Justice under Poul Schlüter. His tenure was marred by the infamous "Tamil Affair," which ultimately led to his political downfall. The scandal involved allegations of illegal activities related to Tamil refugees in Denmark. Ninn-Hansen faced intense criticism for his handling of the situation, leading to his resignation as Speaker of the Parliament and ultimately from politics altogether.
Legal Prosecution and Conviction
The investigations into the Tamil Affair continued, leading to the resignation of the liberal-conservative government in 1993. Ninn-Hansen became the first person in 83 years to be charged with serious crimes committed as a minister. In 1995, he was convicted of three counts of abuse of power and sentenced to four months of conditional imprisonment. The relatively lenient punishment was attributed to his advanced age and health concerns.
Connection to Another Investigation
In 2007, Ninn-Hansen's name resurfaced in connection with a separate investigation. It was discovered that he had ordered the delay of French court inquiries regarding two arrested Palestinians in 1984. The Palestinians were reportedly linked to a terrorist cell operating in Denmark. The investigation ultimately established a conspiracy between Denmark and France, but Ninn-Hansen was not charged directly.
Post-Political Career
Erik Ninn-Hansen has retired from politics entirely. Despite his accomplishments during his ministerial appointments, the Tamil Affair and subsequent legal proceedings overshadow his legacy and have left a lasting impact on Danish political history.
