Åkesson may take a break if Sweden Democrats enter opposition

Jimmie Åkesson could take a break from his duties as Sweden Democrats leader if Sweden’s governing bloc loses power and his party enters opposition, according to party sources.

TV4 reports that several people within SD expect him to take time away after the election campaign. A senior party source says he is not expected to formally step aside, although other senior figures could have to represent the party publicly during his absence.

The sources describe an expectation, with no start date or duration given in the report. TV4 says there are currently no direct calls for Åkesson to resign.

Aftonbladet reports that opinions within SD about his future are divided. Its sources say a successor is not currently being considered, even as some question how much longer he will lead the party.

Åkesson previously took extended sick leave after the 2014 election, when the party’s parliamentary group leader, Mattias Karlsson, took on his duties, according to TV4.

The next appointment of SD’s parliamentary group leader is expected within weeks. Party sources tell TV4 that the choice could help determine who takes a more prominent public role if Åkesson is absent.

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