Tensions rise during Conservative Party nominations in Møre and Romsdal

Before the meeting, intense competition was expected for the nominations to the parliamentary list of the Conservative Party in Møre and Romsdal. There was no dispute over the top spot, as Monica Molvær, the deputy mayor of Ålesund, was unanimously selected as the lead candidate.

However, tensions soon escalated at the Brødrene Brunvoll venue in Molde. Carl-Henrik Moltumyr from Herøy challenged former Ørsta mayor Rune Hovde, who had been suggested for second place by the nomination committee. The vote was extremely close, resulting in Moltumyr winning with 53 votes against 52.

A new voting battle ensued for the third position, with former Rauma mayor Lars Olav Hustad, now residing in Molde, being nominated. Anita Oterhals Eide from Aukra challenged Hustad, ultimately winning 65 to 41 votes.

As the situation unfolded, delegates from Molde decided to gather for a group meeting, leading Ingeborg Forseth from Molde to withdraw from the fourth spot, which was then allocated to Henning Torset from Aure. Kathrine Pernille Beite from Haram expressed disappointment, saying that the large voter base in Molde should be better represented.

Despite offers to include more candidates from Molde, the local Conservative Party declined, leading to bitter disputes during the meeting, with visible tensions between politicians from Molde and Ålesund. Molde Mayor Trygve Grydeland eventually withdrew from the final position on the list, which was confirmed with 27 votes.

Monica Molvær, the top candidate and county leader for the party, opted not to engage in the clashes, focusing instead on uniting the party toward the upcoming parliamentary election, emphasizing the need for a change in government.