The announcement follows Solvang's decision to leave before Christmas last year. Suvatne, a political journalist and author, co-wrote the book "Partiet – en innsideberetning om Arbeiderpartiets fall" in 2024, which according to media reports drew criticism for relying on anonymous sources and had factual errors corrected in a second edition. The book, which examines the decline of the Labour Party, sparked debate about journalistic ethics. "I am proud and wildly looking forward to getting started," Suvatne said in a press release.
Sofie Gran Aspunvik, editor of Debate and Explanation at NRK, confirmed that the book and press ethics were discussed during the recruitment process. "We have had good and thorough conversations with Steinar about this, and are confident that he has a solid understanding of press ethics and a reflective relationship with the experiences he has gained over many years as a political journalist," Aspunvik said. She added that NRK's ethical standards apply to everyone, regardless of program leader.
I am proud and wildly looking forward to getting started.
Vartdal and Aas agreed on short notice to lead Debatten for the spring season after Solvang's exit, ensuring the program maintained high quality, Aspunvik said. She praised their commitment, noting that they will return to their regular roles as program leaders for Dagsnytt 18 and NRK's news broadcasts after Debatten goes off air at the end of May. "The audience will, in other words, get to enjoy Espen and Åsa on NRK's platforms also in the autumn," Aspunvik said.
Suvatne brings extensive experience to the role, having worked as a political journalist at Nettavisen most recently, and before that spent a decade at Dagbladet where he led the political desk. "I think the list of previous Debatten program leaders fills most with awe, and of course I am very proud to have been given this opportunity," Suvatne said. He noted that Debatten is not a one-man show and he looks forward to becoming part of the team behind the broadcasts.
I think the list of previous Debatten program leaders fills most with awe, and of course I am very proud to have been given this opportunity. Debatten is not a one-man show, and I am tremendously looking forward to becoming part of the incredibly strong team behind the broadcasts.
Debatten is a cornerstone of NRK's political coverage, and the appointment of a new host is closely watched. The exact start date for Suvatne's tenure has not been announced, and it is unclear whether the program will undergo any format changes under his leadership. Public reaction to the appointment, particularly regarding the book's controversy, has yet to emerge. Solvang's departure last December left a gap in the program's leadership, but Vartdal and Aas stepped in to ensure continuity.