# Sweden's PM resigns after centre-left wins election

> Ulf Kristersson steps down as prime minister, clearing the way for Social Democrats leader Magdalena Andersson to form a new government after a narrow victory.
- Title: Sweden's PM resigns after centre-left wins election | Shortify
- Summary: Ulf Kristersson steps down as prime minister, clearing the way for Social Democrats leader Magdalena Andersson to form a new government after a narrow…
- Keywords: sweden, ulf kristersson, magdalena andersson, social democrats, election, centre-left, centre-right, coalition talks, prime minister resignation, far right, sweden democrats, news
- Source: the Guardian — https://theguardian.com/world/2026/sep/17/sweden-elections-prime-minister-resigns
- Published: 2026-09-17T15:28:24+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: sweden, ulf kristersson, magdalena andersson, social democrats, election, centre-left, centre-right, coalition talks, prime minister resignation, far right, sweden democrats, news
## Sweden's PM steps down
Ulf Kristersson has resigned as prime minister after four years, clearing the way for Magdalena Andersson and the centre-left opposition to form a new government.
## Centre-left wins narrow majority
The opposition parties secured 176 seats, a three-seat majority over the ruling coalition. Only 50,359 votes separated the two blocs.
## Andersson promises new direction
The Social Democrats leader said Swedes voted for unity and a new direction, naming climate, schools, healthcare, elderly care and immigration as priorities.

> The Swedish people have voted for a new direction for our country, voted for unity and against division.
## Far right loses ground
The Sweden Democrats fell from the second biggest party to third, losing support in a general election for the first time since its foundation.
## Coalition talks begin
Andersson has invited the Left, Centre and Green parties for initial talks. The Left demands a government role, while the Centre refuses to work with them.
## Policy disagreements ahead
The Left wants a billionaire tax, the Greens oppose nuclear energy, and the Centre wants tax cuts while others seek increases. Weeks of difficult talks expected.
## Social Democrats seek broad cooperation
The party is preparing to prioritise changes to immigration, integration and climate policies. Minority governments are common in Swedish politics.
## Key takeaway

Sweden's centre-left opposition won a slim three-seat majority, forcing the resignation of the centre-right PM and setting up complex coalition negotiations.