Swedish parliament rejects Centre Party leader as prime-ministerial candidate

Sweden’s parliament has rejected Centre Party leader Elisabeth Thand Ringqvist as a candidate for prime minister, leaving the country’s post-election government deadlock unresolved. Moderate Party leader Ulf Kristersson, who has been prime minister since 2022, is next to try to form a government, the speaker of parliament said.

The centre-left bloc of four parties won September’s election, but Social Democrat Magdalena Andersson failed to assemble a coalition. Parliament rejected her proposed minority government on 15 October.

Kristersson may struggle to win majority support. Andersson could be asked to make another attempt if he fails, according to the report.

Parliament can hold four votes on a new government before a fresh election must be called.