Leading liberals in Jönköping nominate economic policy spokesperson Cecilia Rönn as new party leader instead of Simona Mohamsson. Meanwhile, L-profile Jan Jönsson says he will leave politics if the party's new line on cooperation with the Sweden Democrats is approved at Sunday's congress.
The Swedish Liberal party is gripped by internal crisis following leader Simona Mohamsson's announcement of openness to government cooperation with the Sweden Democrats. On Friday, Mohamsson held a joint press conference with SD leader Jimmie Åkesson, prompting Stockholm opposition councilor Jan Jönsson to leave the party board the same day. Jönsson tells Dagens Nyheter he cannot continue in politics if the new line is approved at the extraordinary congress on Sunday, March 22. “Then I cannot be credible to my own ethics and morals and the core values I stand for,” he says. He describes the shock of seeing Mohamsson “hug Jimmie Åkesson” and has removed the L-pin from his lapel. Mohamsson comments: “Jan Jönsson has made Stockholm a better and freer city. Regardless of his decision, I have great respect for it.” Several other representatives have signaled they may leave the party. Meanwhile, leading liberals in Jönköping nominate economic policy spokesperson Cecilia Rönn as challenger. Rönn tells TT: “This is a big decision that I take very seriously. For me, it is ultimately about the party's long-term direction and values.” The nomination is backed by, among others, Jimmy Ekström and Jakob Olofsgård. Ekström says Rönn is discussed in several parts of the country. Challengers must be nominated by 7pm Thursday to the nomination committee. On Sunday, the party will vote on Mohamsson as leader and indirectly the new cooperation.
