
Support for Minister Forssell Amid Son's Extremism Revelation
Migration Minister Johan Forssell (M) has publicly acknowledged that his son was involved with right-wing extremism. In an Instagram post, he shared the situation, receiving a flood of supportive comments. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M) has now broken his silence on Forssell.
"Of course, I still have confidence in Johan Forssell," he wrote to Expressen.
In the post, also shared on Forssell's Facebook page, the minister stated that he "obviously considers the situation serious" and that his son "has completely severed ties and is deeply remorseful."
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson commented to Expressen that he was informed by Säpo when Forssell learned of the situation.
"Johan has now shared that he is having very sincere conversations with his teenager, who is remorseful and has cut off previous contacts. I believe Johan Forssell has acted as a responsible parent should when discovering their child is in the wrong and in bad company. I know many parents of teenagers have their own experiences of various difficult conversations," Kristersson wrote, continuing:
"Of course, I continue to have confidence in Johan Forssell."
Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch (KD) also has "full confidence" in Johan Forssell and believes he should continue as minister, she said at a press conference on Thursday.
"When this information came in, all the measures that are usually taken in a situation that could affect the government's security were taken," she said.
Busch also expressed shock at the suggestion that the government might change its stance.
"I hope voters see that the government maintains the same line," she said.
"Becomes a Tool in Political Debate"
Several politicians and other well-known figures are sending support to Forssell in the Instagram comments section. Among them is event organizer Micael Bindefeld, who wrote that it was "beautifully written."
"Take care of each other and try to enjoy the summer break," he wrote.
Martin Melin, a liberal member of parliament, commented with two emojis showing two fists bumping.
Iréne Svenonius, former finance regional councilor in Region Stockholm and current deputy director of the National Property Board, wrote:
"Parenting is precisely this, being able to handle both easy and difficult days. But it's regrettable that a tough private family issue becomes a tool in political debate."
Herrey: "This too shall pass"
Former KD politician Sara Skyttedal urges Forssell and his family to "take care of each other."
"This will blow over," she continued, followed by a heart emoji.
Moderate Richard Herrey, also a former member of the group Herreys, wants the family to take care of themselves.
"Life is unpredictable and full of unexpected and unwanted challenges. 'This too shall pass,'" he also wrote.
Entrepreneur Gunilla von Platen commented with a red heart. And moderate Emma Feldman, who is an opposition councilor in Järfälla, wrote that it was "beautifully and importantly written, Johan."