Swedish Liberals Reject Government Role with Sweden Democrats
Sweden's Liberal Party has rejected any future government role for the far-right Sweden Democrats. Party leader Simona Mohamsson confirmed the unanimous decision, while SD leader Jimmie Åkesson called the position 'incomprehensible.' The dispute reveals ongoing tensions within Sweden's governing coalition.
Sweden's Liberal Party has unanimously rejected any future government cooperation with the Sweden Democrats. The party board decided on Friday to maintain their stance against giving ministerial posts to the far-right party after next year's election.
Liberal leader Simona Mohamsson announced the decision after a party board meeting. She said the Liberals will campaign for the reelection of the current government coalition.
"I can announce that the party board just made a unanimous decision to support my line on the government issue," Mohamsson said in a statement. "We will campaign to ensure this government gets reelected."
She added, "We want Ulf Kristersson as prime minister. We want a center-right government without the Sweden Democrats."
The Liberal leader confirmed her party wants to remove all policy red lines and negotiate a new Tidö Agreement. This refers to the existing governing framework between Sweden's center-right parties.
Sweden Democrats leader Jimmie Åkesson immediately criticized the decision. He called the Liberal position "incomprehensible" and repeated his party's demand for ministerial positions after the next election.
Prime Minister Kristersson responded briefly to the development. He noted he has solved similar political problems before.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions within Sweden's governing coalition. The four-party alliance has governed together since 2022, but the Sweden Democrats have pushed for greater influence.
Political analysts note this public disagreement comes at a sensitive time. Sweden faces multiple challenges including economic concerns and security issues following its NATO membership.
The Liberal Party's firm stance suggests they view cooperation with the Sweden Democrats as politically damaging. Their position may appeal to centrist voters but could strain the current governing arrangement.