Social Democrats suspend lottery ticket sales amid allegations of questionable practices in Sweden

The Social Democrats have decided to suspend the telephone sales of lottery tickets amid allegations of questionable sales practices by the company Kombispel. Lena Hallengren emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “What has come to light is extremely serious, and there is nothing in this that can be defended.”

Hallengren confirmed that the party has filed a complaint against the lottery operations, particularly criticizing their approach: “We did not intend to impose a lottery on anyone who does not want it. Our aim has been to offer an opportunity for those who wish to support the Social Democrats.”

She addressed the ongoing issues by stating that they engaged a telemarketing firm that is now being reevaluated. “There is ample reason for these telemarketing companies to self-reflect. For all of us who use them, we need to consider if it’s possible to continue this way in the future. We need to delve into what has happened.”

Hallengren reassured the public that they did not authorize any sales tactics that would compromise their values. “We did not instruct the operations to sell tickets at any cost or by any means; quite the opposite is true. We must thoroughly investigate the situation.”

The suspension of lottery sales is a significant move for the party, raising concerns over their financing as well, as this stream of income is now in jeopardy.