Internal Conflicts Erupt Within Sweden Democrats in Valdemarsvik as Trio Depart Over Healthcare Project Disputes
Three Sweden Democrats exit Valdemarsvik party over internal disputes concerning a healthcare project.
Key Points
- • Three politicians leave Sweden Democrats due to internal conflicts over healthcare project.
- • Departure linked to disagreements about transparency in handling a 425 million kronor healthcare center project.
- • Valdemarsvik's local government is now a minority led by the Moderate Party post-departures.
- • Criticism of SD's leadership and project management has surfaced amid documentation errors.
In a notable political upheaval in Valdemarsvik, three members of the Sweden Democrats (SD) have left the party amidst escalating internal conflicts related to a significant healthcare project. The departure, involving Marcus Thörnborg, Jörgen Karlsson, and Vicky Söderlind, is rooted in disagreements regarding the transparency and management of the proposed Vammarhöjden healthcare center, projected to cost around 425 million kronor. This project places a substantial financial burden on Valdemarsvik, which is expected to cover over half of the total expenses.
The trio has opted to continue their political engagement as independents in the municipal council, a move that further complicates the local governance structure now led by a minority coalition of the Moderate Party, the Christian Democrats, and the Landsbygdspartiet Oberoende. Central to their critique is the SD group leader Per Hanö, who has been accused of lacking transparency in relaying crucial information regarding the healthcare center project. Jörgen Karlsson has voiced his concerns about the essential need for full disclosure, declaring it vital for informed decision-making that benefits the community.
The controversy intensified when a planned vote on the project was delayed after documentation errors came to light, raising doubts about the project's feasibility and management practices. Notably, group leader Per Hanö has refrained from addressing the criticisms brought forth by his former party members, leaving the situation unresolved and the local government facing heightened scrutiny.