Internal Discord in Swedish Left Party Following Antisemitism Expulsions
The Swedish Left Party faces internal strife after expelling members over antisemitism allegations, prompting political backlash and questions about future alliances.
Key Points
- • Ulf Kristersson criticizes Left Party's handling of antisemitism expulsion.
- • Delgado Varas and Riazat announce plans to continue as independents.
- • Kristersson challenges opposition leaders on their relationship with the Left Party.
- • Government formation discussions reveal divisions among political parties.
A significant conflict has erupted within the Swedish Left Party (Vänsterpartiet) following the expulsion of two prominent members, Lorena Delgado Varas and Daniel Riazat, due to allegations of antisemitism. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson criticized the expulsions during a visit to a synagogue in Gothenburg, where he commemorated 250 years of Jewish presence in Sweden. He deemed the internal discord over antisemitic issues as 'deplorable.'
The expulsions of Delgado Varas and Riazat have stirred considerable controversy, as both members plan to continue their legislative work as independents and are considering forming a political alternative. Their departure has sparked a fierce backlash against the Left Party's leadership, highlighting a rift regarding how the party addresses issues of antisemitism.
Kristersson's remarks underscore concerns about the hypocrisy within the Left Party. He pointed out the disparity in reactions to antisemitic expressions, noting, "When the left finally expels a person who shared antisemitic images, a conflict arises within the party over this. Had any other party done the same, it would have drawn unified criticism from all others, especially from the left. But not now." He urged opposition figures, including former Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson, to clarify their stance on collaborating with the Left Party amidst this turmoil.
The ongoing debate around government formation has further complicated the political landscape, leading to divisions among parties across the political spectrum in Sweden. The Moderate Party, which Kristersson leads, is still navigating its positioning concerning potential alliances, particularly concerning the Sweden Democrats (Sverigedemokraterna). As these developments unfold, it’s clear that the implications of the Left Party's internal conflicts will resonate throughout Sweden's political realm.