Iceland’s President calls for elections on November 30 after Prime Minister’s resignation

The President of Iceland, Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, today accepted Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson’s request to dissolve the parliament and called for elections to be held on November 30. Following this decision, a caretaker government will be formed consisting of members from the Independence Party and the Progressive Party.

Benediktsson presented his resignation to the President during a meeting at Bessastaðir this afternoon. After approximately thirty minutes of discussion, he announced to the media that the President deemed it best for the parliament and the nation to move towards elections.

During the transition, Benediktsson emphasized the importance of finalizing key legislative matters, particularly the budget, ahead of the elections. Both he and the President indicated their intention to ensure continuity in government operations despite the upcoming change.

The Progressive Party confirmed they would remain in the caretaker government, while the Left-Greens stated they would not participate. This decision comes as leaders of the Left-Greens expressed a breach of trust concerning the Prime Minister’s unilateral approach to government dissolution, lacking prior discussions with coalition partners.

Sigurður Ingi Jóhannsson, leader of the Progressive Party, indicated that his party would cooperate with Benediktsson to complete pending projects before the elections. However, he noted that the departure of the Left-Greens marked a significant change in dynamics within the government.

With the dissolution of parliament now confirmed, the political landscape in Iceland is poised for transformation as preparations begin for the upcoming elections.