Kristersson adn Åkesson Publicly Clash Over SD MP’s Social Media Post
STOCKHOLM – A planned announcement regarding a potential reduction in food VAT was overshadowed Thursday by a public disagreement between Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M) and Sweden Democrats (SD) leader jimmie Åkesson over a controversial social media post by SD MP Jessica Stegrud. The escalating tension highlights the fragile dynamics within Sweden’s governing coalition and raises questions about the boundaries of acceptable discourse among its members.
The conflict stems from a post Stegrud made on X (formerly Twitter) following a televised debate on the government’s proposed cultural canon. Stegrud questioned the participation of Minister of Culture Parisa liljestrand (M) and MP Lawen Redar (S),writing,”Interestingly,it is a Swedish-born Kurd and a Persian who debate Swedish cultural canon in Aktuellt.” The post ignited immediate criticism from coalition partners, with Liberal leader Simona Mohamsson labeling the opinion “totally sick.” while Åkesson expressed satisfaction with Stegrud’s subsequent clarification,Kristersson stated he did not believe a sufficient explanation had been offered.
During a joint press conference with the othre coalition leaders, Kristersson pressed for clarity on Stegrud’s original intent. “It is difficult to be happy with an answer that has not arrived,” he said, adding, “But it is not primarily my headache.” Åkesson directly countered, asserting, “I don’t agree. I think she has explained.” He defended Stegrud, stating her clarification indicated the criticism directed at her was “not relevant” and that she had not questioned anyone’s competence or right to participate in the debate.
Åkesson acknowledged differing reactions to the post but urged against “the most drastic interpretations,” emphasizing the importance of clear communication to avoid such situations. The disagreement underscores the challenges of maintaining unity within a coalition government comprised of parties with distinct ideological positions, particularly on issues of immigration and national identity.The incident is likely to fuel further scrutiny of the SD’s rhetoric and its impact on the coalition’s stability.
Further details on stegrud’s response can be found here: https://www.dn.se/kultur/kritik-mot-sd-ledamots-kanonkommentar/
