Sweden votes in thriller with opposition just ahead

Sweden held a general election today, with the outcome being a tense contest between the opposition Social Democrats, who have long commanded a comfortable lead, and the conservative Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson's four-party alliance, which includes the far-right Sweden Democrats. The Social Democrats, led by 59-year-old Magdalena Andersson, pledged to strengthen the welfare state and assist struggling households amid rising costs.

Kristersson, on the other hand, aimed to enhance Swedes' daily lives after his government successfully curbed organized crime and immigration. The election's tight race culminated in a dead heat just before the vote.

As the ballot papers were cast, Andersson urged voters to choose between a government dominated by the Sweden Democrats or one led by her party. Meanwhile, Kristersson vowed to focus on improving the lives of ordinary people, a promise he made in his bid to lead after his coalition government struck a deal with the far-right party in 2022.

The Sweden Democrats, under their far-right leader Jimmie Akesson, have seen a meteoric rise since entering parliament in 2010. If the far-right party were to win, Akesson would likely secure key cabinet posts, particularly on immigration, as per their agreement. With voting stations open and exit polls expected to reveal the first reliable results, Sweden's voter turnout regularly exceeds 80%.