Liberalerna's decision to open for cooperation with Sverigedemokraterna in a future government has created significant division within the party, particularly in the Gävle region. The party's leadership, led by Simona Mohamsson, announced the policy shift on Friday, which was symbolized by a public embrace between Mohamsson and SD leader Jimmie Åkesson. Kristofer Dahlgren, Liberalerna's municipal councilor and district chairman in Gävleborg, described how the party in his region is divided on the issue.
"There are members who feel sad and disappointed. But there are also those who think it's the right way forward," Dahlgren stated. He added that he personally is "not yet convinced that this is the right way forward" and was "quite shocked" by the decision.
There are members who feel sad and disappointed. But there are also those who think it's the right way forward
The controversy has led to members leaving the party nationwide, and Liberalerna's youth wing has demanded Mohamsson's resignation. On Sunday, the party will hold a national meeting to discuss the new cooperation with Sverigedemokraterna, where members will decide whether to keep Mohamsson as party leader. Dahlgren noted that while no local members in Gävle have announced their departure, the party expects to lose some members over the decision.
not yet convinced that this is the right way forward
quite shocked by the decision