Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has criticized the current political climate in Sweden, describing it as 'terrible' following a controversial incident involving SD member Jessica Stegrud. Despite the uproar, Stegrud remains in her parliamentary position. Kristersson emphasized that he does not hold responsibility for individual actions of SD members, while Vice Prime Minister Ebba Busch also condemned Stegrud's actions.
Kristersson Criticizes Political Climate Amid Stegrud Controversy
Kristersson Criticizes Political Climate Amid Stegrud Controversy
SD member Jessica Stegrud remains in her position after recent turmoil. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M) comments on the filmed confrontation at Stockholm Central.
"Many need to shape up. This is an example of that," he tells Expressen.
Ulf Kristersson states that there is "a lot of nonsense" in Swedish politics right now.
"Many need to shape up. This is an example of that. I also think all terror romantics and anti-Semites on the left need to shape up."
According to Kristersson, the high tone is dangerous for Sweden.
"We are starting to have a tone in Swedish politics that is completely terrible," he says.
No Responsibility for SD
However, he will not demand that Jessica Stegrud leave her parliamentary seat.
"I do not take responsibility for either social democratic anti-Semites or Sweden Democrat filmmakers."
You govern with SD's support. Isn't this a question for you?
"No, certainly not. We are implementing major political changes in Sweden. I do not take responsibility for what individual SD members do."
Will you make any demands on SD?
"I have said what I think about this, I cannot control their members. They must do that themselves."
Where is the line, when do you need to make demands?
"I say what I think, but I do not take responsibility for other parties."
Significant Turmoil
There has been significant turmoil around MP Jessica Stegrud in recent weeks.
First, she received strong criticism for a post on X about Culture Minister Parisa Liljestrand (M) and Lawen Redar (S), the Social Democrats' cultural policy spokesperson. She wrote: "It's telling that it's a Swedish-born Kurd and a Persian debating a Swedish cultural canon on Aktuellt."
Shortly thereafter, it was revealed that Stegrud was involved in filming a noted confrontation with far-right activist Nick Alinia—whom she reportedly has a relationship with—and two young men this summer.
Vice Prime Minister Ebba Busch has previously directed sharp criticism at Jessica Stegrud.
"I think the behavior is lousy. It's lousy to leave a comment that is misinterpreted or can be misinterpreted and then not quickly explain what you mean," she said, continuing:
"And I think it's lousy to act in a way that has contributed to teenagers and their families and relatives being exposed."
Despite this, SD has decided that she can remain in parliament.
"We have had a conversation, she has explained the situation she felt she was in and the feeling of insecurity. I can understand that, but I still think the situation is troubling. I will not comment further on the matter at this stage," SD's group leader Linda Lindberg previously said.