SF Leadership Divided Over Rehiring of Harassment-Accused Advisor

The Danish political party Socialistisk Folkeparti (SF) is grappling with internal divisions over the rehiring of a former advisor, Thomas Nystrøm, who faces allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior. Sigurd Agersnap, the party's political spokesperson, acknowledged these differing views within the party's national leadership.

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There have been different views on this case within SF. This has also been reported in the press, and it is also reflected in SF's national leadership.

Nystrøm's recent appointment as a special advisor to party leader Pia Olsen Dyhr in the Ministry of Economy and Interior was short-lived. He resigned after just two days amid widespread criticism. This marks a repeat of his career trajectory, as he previously resigned from a similar position in 2020 due to similar accusations.

Party leader Pia Olsen Dyhr, who personally hired Nystrøm, has faced significant backlash. She initially defended her decision, stating that the advisor had contributed to the party after his 2020 dismissal. However, the criticism intensified, particularly from SF councilor Lotte Kofoed, who claimed she was the victim of Nystrøm's harassment in 2020. Kofoed accused Dyhr of subjecting her to psychological pressure and making her life "hell" by rehiring him.

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Pia Olsen Dyhr (SF) by hiring the advisor had subjected Kofoed to psychological pressure and made her life 'a hell'.

Nystrøm himself has acknowledged his past behavior as "completely unacceptable" in a Facebook post. While he does not recall the specific incident with Kofoed, he stated he has "no reason to believe" it did not happen. The controversy has cast a shadow over the SF party, highlighting ongoing debates about handling harassment allegations and the vetting of political advisors.

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He remembers the incident with Lotte Kofoed himself, but has 'no reason to believe' that it is not true.