Acko Ankarberg Johansson has been removed as Sweden's healthcare minister, as the Christian Democrats aim to strengthen their position in healthcare policy. The decision, kept within a small circle, comes ahead of the upcoming election. Speculation surrounds her sudden departure, especially after she announced her candidacy for parliament just a week ago. Potential successors include Nike Örbrink and other prominent party members.
Kristdemokraterna Seeks New Leadership in Healthcare: Acko Ankarberg Johansson Steps Down
Sources: KD Aims to 'Strengthen the Team' in Healthcare Issue
Acko Ankarberg Johansson (KD) has been removed as healthcare minister, according to Expressen. Internal discussions have led to the decision to 'strengthen the team' in the crucial healthcare issue for the Christian Democrats. A new minister is expected to be appointed on Tuesday.
The outgoing healthcare minister, Acko Ankarberg Johansson, has a background as the party secretary for the Christian Democrats and is described as influential internally and appreciated in healthcare matters. However, communication with voters has not been effective, according to Expressen's sources.
The fear of losing trust in the healthcare issue, which is the Christian Democrats' strongest area, prompted the decision to 'strengthen the team' and present a new KD minister ahead of the election.
The decision was kept within a very small circle – neither Acko Ankarberg Johansson's home county Jönköping nor KD's executive committee had been informed, according to Expressen.
– It came as a bolt from the blue, says a source.
Departure Raises Questions
Speculation has arisen as Ankarberg Johansson announced her candidacy for parliament just a week ago. Now she is stepping down as minister and withdrawing her candidacy.
Some Expressen spoke with have also raised concerns related to the announcement, suggesting Ankarberg Johansson may have fallen ill. In 2018, she revealed she had suffered a stroke, resulting in brain fatigue. However, there is currently no indication of this.
Instead, the announcement appears coordinated, with statements on social media from both KD leader Ebba Busch and Ankarberg Johansson.
Names Being Considered
Since it became known on Monday that the Christian Democrats and Acko Ankarberg Johansson decided to part ways, an intense discussion about who can best take over her role has ensued.
The desired candidate is someone strong in communication. One frequently mentioned is former KDU leader, Stockholm politician Nike Örbrink, 28, whom Expressen has listed as one of Sweden's most powerful politicians under 30. Other names include MPs Hans Eklind, economic policy spokesperson, and Christian Carlsson, chairman of the social committee.
Some also hope that Ebba Busch herself will take on the healthcare issues, but the energy sector, which she currently oversees, is also important for the party. Former KD leader Göran Hägglund is also on the party's wish list.
Expressen is seeking Acko Ankarberg Johansson.