The government issue has surfaced as a new crisis for Center leader Muharrem Demirok, who has received internal criticism for having put his foot down on who is the party’s candidate for prime minister – even though it is a long time until the next election.
According to Expressen the internal criticism concerns that Demirok has taken a stand for Magdalena Andersson (S) as candidate for prime minister at a meeting with the party board. There he is said to have wanted to reach a decision despite several members leaving the meeting.
In Wednesday’s Aktuellt, he is asked if Andersson is the Center Party’s prime ministerial candidate.
– We have not made any such decisions. Neither last Friday nor earlier than that, there are no such decisions.
“Damages trust”
Despite sharp internal criticism, Muharrem Demirok feels that he has the unwavering trust of the members to lead the party. The fact that internal discussions have now become increasingly public does not benefit the party, he thinks.
– It damages the trust that built our people’s movement so strong.
Muharrem Demirok himself believes that his door has always been open and that he meets other center party members often.
– Then it gets bad when the criticism comes anonymously. Members are deprived of the opportunity to participate and influence. They are creating a situation where trust is lacking in our people’s movement.
Must choose direction to gain influence
At the same time, Demirok is clear that the Center Party’s policy should be a guide going forward and that the party “must land in one direction” in order to gain influence after a long time in opposition.
– I am pleased that Andersson says that she can cooperate with all parties except the Sweden Democrats. It is a positive message, says Demirok.
– Ulf Kristersson closes doors. Then centrists cannot stand outside like beggars and wait for him to open it. We have a backbone and don’t just wait for others to let us in, continues the C leader.
He believes that it is not only his choice of path that matters going forward – the Moderates must also make a choice. If the SD cooperation is broken, C is open to talks.
– But Kristersson clings harder and harder to SD. It is out of the question to have a discussion in that situation, says Demirok.