From Iceland — New Leftist Alliance?

New Leftist Alliance?

Published August 26, 2013

The chairpersons of the Social Democrats and the Leftist-Greens say they are seriously considering forming a “leftist alliance” for next spring’s municipal elections.
As many will remember, the two parties formed the ruling coalition which rose to power after emergency elections were held in 2009. Last April, this coalition was unseated, and replaced by the right-wing Independence Party and Progressives.
Vísir now reports that Leftist-Greens chairperson Katrín Jakobsdóttir (seen above) has confirmed that an alliance of the Social Democrats and Leftist-Greens could be imminent.
“I have always said that leftists should work together,” she told reporters. “In light of what kind of government is in power, I think it matters that people in this political wing look to how we can best work together.”
Árni Páll Árnason, chairperson of the Social Democrats, said for his part that he believes the Social Democrat vote was split in the last election, but that this support could be regained “by working with other parties, and we of course want as many people as possible to support this idea.”
For now, the alliance – if it comes to being – will run in next spring’s municipal elections. Katrín would not speculate on such an alliance running for parliament, nor even who would lead it.

Support The Reykjavík Grapevine!
Buy subscriptions, t-shirts and more from our shop right here!

Show Me More!