Progress Party deputy leader admits drink-driving

Progress Party (Frp) MP Morten Wold has stepped down as deputy speaker of Norway’s parliament after being caught drink-driving over Easter, he confirmed in a Facebook post on Thursday.

“I was stopped by police during Easter for driving with a high blood alcohol level,” Wold wrote. “I admitted the offence on the spot and am prepared to accept my punishment.”

The 12-year Storting veteran, who represents Buskerud, stated he has struggled with alcohol dependency and is now seeking professional treatment. “I have an alcohol problem that requires medical help to overcome,” he admitted. “Even though I’ve had great opportunities as a politician, my life hasn’t always been as good as it may have seemed. Too often, I’ve turned to alcohol, and that has hurt my family and friends.”

Wold has requested leave from his role as deputy speaker and is currently on sick leave.

Frp leader Sylvi Listhaug called the incident serious but praised Wold’s decision to seek help. “It’s positive that he’s being open about his alcohol problem and accepting treatment,” she told *Dagbladet*. “Stepping down from his position shows he understands the gravity of the situation. We respect his need for privacy and time to recover.”