Party leader and Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in conversation with Oslo Labor Party leader and party mate Frode Jacobsen (to the right).
Photo: Terje Pedersen / NTB
County leader Frode Jacobsen of the Oslo Labour Party admits that the party is in crisis, but will not confirm whether he supports party leader Jonas Gahr Støre.
– I think that when the Labour Party has a support of 16 percent, the party is in crisis, and it is an incredibly tough situation, says Frode Jacobsen to Dagbladet in connection with Oslo Labour Party’s Christmas meeting on Tuesday.
The Labour Party is performing very poorly in opinion polls, most recently a TV 2 poll on Monday where the party ends up at just 16.5 percent support.
– The leadership has great duty
Several media outlets have in recent days referred to a long series of central and primarily unidentified sources within the party – including central board members and county leaders – who are critical of Jonas gahr Støre‘s leadership and leadership performance.
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– But the party leadership certainly has a great responsibility. Jonas is our leader, elected to the first place on the Oslo Labour Party’s parliamentary list, says Jacobsen.
– Simultaneously occurring, there are always national congresses and annual meetings that elect representatives. What I say, and what advice I give in those processes, I keep internal and do not share through the media, he says.
How dose Frode Jacobsen propose to improve communication and engagement with the electorate?
Interview with Frode Jacobsen: Insights on the Oslo Labour Party Crisis
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Frode Jacobsen, the County Leader of the Oslo Labour Party.Let’s dive right in. Recently,you’ve openly admitted that the Labour Party is in crisis,especially with a support rate of just 16.5 percent as reported in the latest TV 2 poll. What does this decline mean for the party’s future?
Frode Jacobsen: Thank you for having me. A support level of 16 percent is indeed alarming and signals that we must reassess our strategies and outreach. This crisis has considerable implications—not just for our political standing but also for our connection with the electorate. It’s crucial that we address the issues causing this decline head-on.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the party leadership has a great obligation in this situation. Can you elaborate on what you believe is lacking in the current leadership of Jonas Gahr Støre?
Frode Jacobsen: certainly. While Jonas Gahr Støre was elected with meaningful support, the recent critiques from various sources within the party highlight a disconnect between leadership decisions and grassroots sentiments. It’s vital for leaders to actively engage with party members and stakeholders to ensure that our policies resonate with the public.
Time.news Editor: Given the ongoing internal debates about the leadership, how do you see the role of collective decision-making in the party’s future direction?
Frode Jacobsen: Collective decision-making is crucial.Our national congresses and annual meetings are platforms to elect representatives who reflect the party’s values and vision. I advocate for transparency in those processes, and while I advise my colleagues internally, it’s paramount that we come together to support decisions that unify rather than divide us.
Time.news Editor: What practical steps are you and the party considering to address this crisis and improve public perception?
Frode Jacobsen: We must prioritize direct communication with our constituents. Engaging the public through forums, consultations, and social media can help us understand their concerns better. We’re also looking at amplifying community initiatives that align with Labour’s core values, thus showcasing our commitment and relevance.
Time.news Editor: As someone deeply involved in politics, what advice would you give young politicians or members of the Labour Party facing similar challenges?
Frode Jacobsen: My advice would be to remain grounded and focused on the party’s foundational principles. Engage actively with yoru communities, listen more than you speak, and foster genuine relationships. It’s essential to adapt while remaining true to our values—this balance is what can sustain us through difficult times.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Frode, for your insights. As the Labour Party navigates through this challenging phase, it’s clear that strategic engagement and internal unity will play critical roles in regaining public trust and support. We look forward to seeing how you and the party will evolve in the coming months.
Frode Jacobsen: Thank you for having me. Together, we will work towards a renewed vision for the Labour Party, one that resonates with the values and aspirations of our communities.
