Elisabeth Thand Ringqvist has been nominated as the new leader of Sweden's Center Party. The party's nomination committee put her forward just one week before their national convention.
"I accept this with great humility, joy, and strong optimism for the future," she stated during a press conference.
Anders Åkesson, chair of the nomination committee, expressed confidence in their choice. "We are very happy to propose Elisabeth Thand Ringqvist as the new party leader," he said. "She has shown both willingness and enthusiasm to shoulder the responsibility of leading the Center Party."
Åkesson emphasized the need for immediate action, noting the party requires someone who can make a "running start." He added they sought a candidate who could continue the work begun by former leader Anna-Karin Hatt.
Hatt resigned unexpectedly several weeks ago after just half a year in the position. She cited threats and harassment as reasons for her departure.
The leadership change comes with less than a year remaining until Sweden's next parliamentary election. This timing creates immediate pressure for the new leader to establish their authority quickly.
Thand Ringqvist currently serves as the party's parliamentary group leader and business policy spokesperson. She entered parliament following the 2022 election.
Her professional background includes significant experience in both politics and business. She served as CEO of the Swedish Federation of Business Owners from 2011 to 2015 and held numerous board positions.
Her political career began in local government in Östersund from 1991 to 2010. She later worked as political advisor to former Minister for Enterprise Maud Olofsson.
Thand Ringqvist holds a degree in business and economics from the Stockholm School of Economics. She is married with two children.
The Center Party convention in Karlstad will make the final decision on her appointment next week.