Left Party faces internal turmoil after antisemitic remarks and expulsions in Skåne

Two politicians from the Left Party in Skåne, criticized for antisemitic remarks, have exited the party. Additionally, Kristofer Lundberg, the chair of the party’s local branch in Angered, has been expelled after expressing support for the Palestinian militant group PFLP, which is designated as a terrorist organization.

The question remains whether this expulsion will placate the party’s critics. The Jewish Central Council highlights systemic issues of antisemitism within the Left Party and has barred the party, along with Sweden Democrats, from its commemorative events. For the Left Party, it is crucial to address this exclusion, both practically and symbolically. A meeting with the Jewish Central Council is scheduled soon, and a parliamentary debate regarding the Middle Eastern situation is set for Friday, providing further opportunities for political opponents to accuse the party of antisemitism.

These allegations pose a significant challenge for the Left Party, which prides itself on being a leading advocate for anti-racism. Such claims could tarnish its reputation and weaken its standing among various voter demographics, potentially affecting future collaborations with green-red coalitions. The Centre Party has asserted that antisemitic statements from Left Party members will preclude any governmental alliance.

The issue is compounded by the fact that there are supporters within the party who feel that it has not criticized Israel strongly enough or adequately supported Palestinian causes. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has intensified these sentiments, raising political tensions domestically. Criticism from pro-Palestinian activists towards the party has also increased, with demands for Lundberg’s reinstatement growing among certain Palestinian organizations that represent a significant voter group for the Left Party. This dual pressure adds to the challenges faced by party leader Nooshi Dadgostar.