Jimmie Akesson eyes Sweden PM job in 2030

Jimmie Akesson, leader of Sweden's anti-immigration Sweden Democrats, told AFP on Wednesday that he would like to aim for the post of prime minister in 2030 or later.

Sweden holds a general election on September 13. Akesson said his party and the Moderates agree that Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson is the right-wing bloc's candidate for prime minister if it wins the election.

Akesson said that, in return, the Sweden Democrats should have significant influence in such a government and hold ministerial posts with substantial responsibility.

A Verian poll published by broadcaster SVT on Tuesday credited the three right-wing parties in government, together with the Sweden Democrats, with 43.9 percent voter support. The left-wing opposition was credited with 53.9 percent.

Kristersson's coalition of Moderates, Christian Democrats and Liberals came to power in 2022 after agreeing to wide-ranging cooperation with the Sweden Democrats in exchange for parliamentary support. In April, Kristersson said he was willing to include the Sweden Democrats in a future government and give the party influential cabinet posts, including immigration and integration.