Number of Azerbaijani candidates in upcoming Swedish elections increases

Two more candidates of Azerbaijani origin running for political parties in Sweden have been identified ahead of the country’s upcoming general elections.

The candidates are Aygun Alekberova and her son, Rihad Alekberov, who are representing the Moderate Party of Sweden (Moderaterna), Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

Aygun Alekberova is running for a seat on the municipal council of Älvkarleby Municipality. She says her goal is to actively contribute to the development of the local community and help address issues that directly affect residents’ daily lives.

Rihad Alekberov is running for a seat on the municipal council of Gävle, ranking sixth on the Moderaterna candidate list. He also heads the local branch of the Moderate Youth League (MUF).

At just 18, he is one of the youngest candidates in the upcoming elections. He considers education one of the main focuses of his political activity, arguing that young people should have access to quality education and favourable conditions for their future development. Expanding opportunities for meaningful and beneficial leisure activities for young people is another priority, he says.

Aygun and Rihad Alekberov say it is important for them not only to contribute to the development of Swedish society but also to maintain a connection with their Azerbaijani roots. They emphasise that they are proud of their heritage and intend, through their civic and political activities, to provide information about Azerbaijan when necessary and represent a position connected to their historic homeland.

Earlier, Azerbaijan’s State News Agency reported on the participation of other candidates of Azerbaijani origin in the upcoming elections, representing the Swedish Social Democratic Party, the Centre Party and the Green Party.

Sweden’s general elections will be held on September 13. Voters will elect 349 members of the Riksdag, as well as members of 21 regional councils and 290 municipal councils.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov