Four opposition parties in Gothenburg want to reduce taxes for residents. They also plan to stop what they call left-wing projects. The Moderate Party, Democrats, Liberals, and Christian Democrats presented their joint budget proposal this week.
Axel Josefson from the Moderate Party leads the opposition in the city council. He said people should not face punishment taxes just for living in Gothenburg. The parties believe current tax levels are too high for local residents.
Gothenburg is Sweden's second largest city and has been governed by left-wing coalitions for years. The opposition now challenges this political direction. Their proposal comes as many Swedish households struggle with rising living costs.
Local taxes fund municipal services like schools, elderly care, and infrastructure. Swedish municipalities have significant autonomy in setting tax rates. The opposition argues lower taxes would leave more money in residents' pockets.
The term left-wing projects typically refers to social programs, cultural initiatives, and environmental measures favored by left-leaning parties. The opposition did not specify which projects they would stop.
This political debate reflects wider tensions in Swedish politics. Municipal elections will test voter appetite for tax cuts versus public services. The proposal faces slim chances of passing without support from the current governing coalition.