Title: Swedish MP Faces Backlash for Controversial Tweet Following Brussels Terrorist Act
Updated 00.49 | Published 00.36
Three Swedish citizens were shot in central Brussels just before the start of the European Championship qualifier between Belgium and Sweden. Tragically, two of them have succumbed to their injuries, sending shockwaves through both countries. The Swedish Football Association’s chairman, Fredrik Reinfeldt, was escorted from the stands by security personnel after being informed of the devastating news.
However, amidst this grave situation, a Member of Parliament from the Sweden Democrats, Jessica Stegrud, caused outrage with a now-deleted tweet. She suggested that Reinfeldt, who was already under police protection, should have been “forced to remain without any police protection.” Stegrud also expressed her contempt for politicians, including Reinfeldt, whom she held responsible for the foundation of this act of terrorism.
The controversial tweet quickly drew the attention of social media users, politicians, and the public at large. Former Prime Minister Carl Bildt condemned Stegrud’s statement, describing it as “unbelievable” for a member of Sweden’s Riksdag. The vice chairman of the Järva district council, Ole Jörgen Persson (M), labeled the tweet as “disgusting” and criticized Stegrud for politicizing a terrorist act.
Gustaf Göthberg, a member of the Moderates’ Parliament, demanded an apology from Stegrud for her insensitive comments. He stated that she owed all the Swedes who were present at the arena an apology and emphasized that her behavior was unbecoming of a Member of Parliament.
Responding to the criticism, Stegrud claimed that her tweet had been misinterpreted and clarified her intentions. She expressed that she wished for all Swedes to feel safe, including Reinfeldt, but questioned why politicians who allegedly contributed to insecurity should receive additional protection. However, she ultimately decided to delete the tweet due to its misinterpretation.
As the public debates the appropriateness of her remarks, it is evident that Stegrud’s tweet has further ignited the discussion around national security and the role of politicians in addressing terrorism.