Sverigedemokraterna Insists on Government Role Despite Liberal Party Opposition

During a recent televised debate involving eight Swedish party leaders, Sverigedemokraterna (SD) leader Jimmie Åkesson asserted that the Liberal Party (L) will need to change its current stance of excluding SD from any future government coalitions. Åkesson emphasized that with about 20% voter support, SD will demand inclusion in the next government after the election. L's leader, Simona Mohamsson, reaffirmed her party's refusal to support any government that includes SD, declaring firmly that cooperation with the Social Democrats (S) is "closed, sealed, bricked up, and the key has been thrown away."

Ulf Kristersson, leader of the Moderate Party and prime ministerial candidate supported by L, responded to these developments calmly. He downplayed the ultimatum-like demands from SD, suggesting they be taken with a "pinch of salt," reminding that similar situations occurred before the last election and the government was still formed. Kristersson remains confident about forming a government should the Moderates win the upcoming election. Meanwhile, KD leader Ebba Busch criticized L's ultimatum for limiting government alternatives.

These statements highlight ongoing tensions in forming Sweden's next government, with SD pushing for a role despite significant opposition from Liberals. The debate reflects complex coalition dynamics ahead of the election, with SD poised to assert influence and Liberals maintaining their stance against cooperating with SD or S, complicating prospects for forming a majority government.