Storting rowing stunt draws criticism

Former Oslo mayor Fabian Stang has criticised the Norwegian parliament’s rowing stunt in support of the national football team, calling it inappropriate for a legislative chamber.

In a Facebook post on Friday, the veteran Conservative politician said the spectacle—where all present MPs joined in a coordinated “ro, ro” chant led by parliamentary president Masud Gharahkhani—undermined the Storting’s credibility.

“I don’t want to be a party pooper, and I find the ‘roing’ phenomenon fun,” Stang wrote. “But the exercise with a full chamber rowing under the president’s leadership struck me as odd.”

He argued that while he supports the national team and enjoys lighthearted moments, such displays do not belong in a setting where serious decisions are made. “It must have seemed strange to those who depend on the decisions taken in that house,” he said.

Stang also referenced past incidents, such as politicians being tricked into three-wheeled bike races, which he said similarly diminished respect for their public duties.

Progress Party MP Erlend Wiborg was the only representative who opted not to participate in the stunt, remaining seated instead.