Magdalena Andersson

Swedish Social Democratic leader Magdalena Andersson has given up her attempt to form a new government, leaving the country in political deadlock following September's parliamentary election. With no bloc holding a clear majority in the Riksdag, the task of forming a government is expected to pass to the conservative-led opposition, prolonging uncertainty over who will govern Sweden.

Sweden remains deadlocked after an election in which the centre-left bloc won 176 seats to 173, yet Magdalena Andersson gave up trying to form a government. The Left Party's decision to back a Moderate for Speaker angered her bloc, the Centre Party refuses any deal giving influence to the Sweden Democrats or the Left, and Jimmie Åkesson won't support a government without SD. Ulf Kristersson, despite leading the smaller bloc, may now attempt to form a government.

Sweden's government formation talks continue after the election, with Christian Democrat leader Ebba Busch saying she has a plan and that "there is a way forward", while confirming an afternoon meeting on the Ulf Kristersson question. Moderate sources suggest Kristersson should decline any exploratory mandate, and Busch says her bloc is well positioned should an extra election be called. Magdalena Andersson has urged the Centre and Liberal parties to backtrack, while the right says it is ready to govern if given the chance.

Swedish Politics is focused on Magdalena Andersson and rising tensions between the Social Democrats and the Left Party ahead of the parliamentary session's opening. She says she is not afraid of a snap election, calling one 'very good', while commentators accuse her of dodging responsibility and experts dismiss the high-profile feuding as theatre. Reports also cover Nórén's million-kronor salary after unexpected support.