SV leader Kirsti Bergstø announces bid for re-election amid internal dissent

Kirsti Bergstø informed the Socialist Left Party’s selection committee that she intends to stand for re-election as party leader, emphasizing the work she still aims to accomplish. The announcement comes after a recent October poll indicated that SV slipped below the electoral threshold and was outperformed by competing left-wing parties, intensifying internal criticism. In a closed Facebook group, members have called for a overhaul of the leadership, and Arendal deputy mayor Inger Brokka de Ruiter expressed hope that the party will better engage its base and local branches.

While Bergstø and deputy leader Lars Haltbrekken are seeking new terms, fellow deputy leader Marian Hussein has decided not to run again. The party has opened a consultation period for local and regional chapters to submit suggestions for the leadership slate, with a deadline later this month. The selection committee plans to present its recommendations at the end of January, ahead of the national congress in March.