During Wednesday's party leader debate in the Swedish parliament, Jimmie Åkesson (SD) commented on his role as a potential prime minister candidate. He expressed confidence in continued cooperation with Ulf Kristersson (M) on government formation. After the debate, he also addressed the suspicions against SD MP Katja Nyberg.
On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, a party leader debate was held in the Swedish parliament for the first time in the evening. The debate was followed by interviews in SVT's Aktuellt with the leaders of the three largest parties: Ulf Kristersson (M), Magdalena Andersson (S), and Jimmie Åkesson (SD).
Kristersson emphasized the need for a strong government in uncertain times. 'When there are very turbulent times internationally, we must do everything right here at home in Sweden,' he said. He discussed crime, defense, and the economy, contrasting his policies with the opposition's lack of alternatives. 'A strong government is needed that can unite, agree, and get things done,' he added.
Andersson focused on strengthening ordinary households and combating unemployment. 'We need to build the strong Sweden again,' she stated. She proposed increased child benefits, abolished sick leave deductions, and cheaper medicines, while criticizing the Tidö government for tax cuts benefiting high earners. Andersson referred to Åkesson as a prime minister candidate alongside her and Kristersson.
Åkesson confirmed his status as a candidate: 'We are primarily three party leaders, each leading a major party. If you lead a major party in Sweden, you are surely also a prime minister candidate.' He referenced past success in government formation: 'We have succeeded in uniting on the government issue once, and I am convinced we will succeed again.' Åkesson stressed that Sweden needs at least four more years to continue the reforms: 'Sweden is finally heading in the right direction, but it takes time.'
After the debate, Åkesson commented on the suspicions against Katja Nyberg, an SD MP on the justice committee, who is being investigated for drunk driving and drug offenses following an accident in the days between Christmas and New Year. Nyberg has denied the allegations and expressed surprise. Åkesson said: 'Of course, in general, if one is convicted of a crime, one should not sit in the parliament for the Sweden Democrats. But we are not there yet.' He did not want to speculate and awaited facts, and has not spoken to Nyberg personally – that is handled by the group leadership.
