Søren Gade’s position as Speaker of Parliament is being challenged due to concerns over a potential conflict of interest stemming from his role as chairman of the board of Esbjerg Havn. Alternativet and Enhedslisten have withdrawn their support for his re-election, forcing a vote in October, a departure from the usual custom of unanimous support.

The criticism centers on the possibility that Gade’s dual roles could compromise his impartiality, particularly as Esbjerg Havn is vying to become the construction site for multi-billion dollar warships.

While the Denmark Democrats have yet to decide on their stance, SF, Dansk Folkeparti, and Radikale Venstre have already pledged their support for Gade’s re-nomination.

With the backing of the government parties, Gade is likely to be re-elected as Speaker of Parliament despite the opposition from Alternativet and Enhedslisten.

Gade himself acknowledges the situation as part of the political process. He maintains that the parties are within their rights to question his interests, while noting that other parties have faced similar scrutiny.

Enhedslisten’s Peder Hvelplund stated that their opposition is a matter of principle, believing that the Speaker should solely represent Parliament without outside interests.