Faroese coalition parties debate six or more government ministers

Coalition negotiations between the Faroese People’s Party, Union Party, and Social Democratic Party are nearing a final agreement—but the number of cabinet ministers remains unresolved, Kringvarp Føroya reports.

The three parties have previously stated their preference for six ministers, but with political dynamics shifting, that number may now be up for debate. The current government, led by outgoing Prime Minister Aksel V. Johannesen, was reduced to six ministers in December 2025 after three were dismissed.

People’s Party leader Beinir Johannesen confirmed that negotiations are in their final stages, with policy agreements and ministerial appointments still to be settled. While all three party leaders initially supported a six-minister cabinet, the balance of power in a potential three-party coalition may require flexibility.

The People’s Party, the largest in parliament, seeks greater influence, while the Social Democrats demand significant concessions to join a coalition with two centre-right parties. The Union Party, meanwhile, requires assurances from both sides on national unity policies.

The negotiations follow a government restructuring process led by Ben Arabo, chair of the reform committee. Political realities, however, may force a compromise—especially as the parties finalise their policy platform.