Greenland is preparing for a crucial general election on March 11, focusing on independence amid renewed interest from former US President Trump. The 31-member parliamentary elections will determine the new Prime Minister, currently Mute Egede of the Inuit Ataqatigiit party. Pro-independence sentiments are echoed across the political spectrum, with commitments to referendums and national welfare initiatives. Diplomatic relations and Greenland’s autonomy remain significant themes in the election discourse.
Greenland is set to hold a pivotal general election, with independence emerging as a significant issue in light of former US President Donald Trump’s persistent interest in the territory. The Inatsisartut parliament, comprising 31 members selected from six political parties, will determine the new leadership following the election scheduled for March 11. The leader of the party securing the majority of seats will assume the role of Prime Minister, currently held by Mute Egede from the left-wing Inuit Ataqatigiit party.
Recent polling data, though scarce, indicated potential success for Inuit Ataqatigiit, suggesting a possible 31 percent support, leading by 9 percent over the Siumut party. Greenland, which became a Danish territory in 1953, gained extensive self-governing autonomy in 2009, including the rights to pursue independence through a referendum. To capitalize on this sentiment, the Siumut party has pledged to hold an independence referendum post-election, while the opposition party, Naleraq, is also advocating for independence alongside collaboration with the United States.
In 2019, President Trump controversially expressed an intention to acquire the mineral-rich land of Greenland, leading to diplomatic tensions with Denmark. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen firmly rejected this proposition, stating emphatically, “Greenland is not for sale. Greenland is not Danish. Greenland belongs to Greenland. I strongly hope that this is not meant seriously.” Trump reiterated his ambitions during a recent address to the US Congress, emphasizing the strategic importance of Greenland for national security.
Currently leading the Inuit Ataqatigiit party, Prime Minister Mute Egede became Greenland’s youngest leader in 2021. He is advocating for independence from Denmark and has urged the removal of colonial influences while focusing on welfare improvements and sustainable development. Erik Jensen, head of the Siumut party, acknowledges the importance of an informed electorate regarding independence and anticipates a referendum within the next election period.
Pele Broberg, leader of Naleraq, presents a strong pro-independence stance, challenging the colonial legacy. Jens Frederik Nielsen, the center-right Demokraatit party leader, views Trump’s remarks as a threat to Greenland’s political independence. Aqqalu Jerimiassen from the Atassut party emphasizes maintaining healthy US relations without compromising Greenland’s autonomy. Newly formed Qulleq party leader Karl Ingemann critiques the management of Greenland’s resources and embraces the independence movement.
The upcoming general election in Greenland will significantly impact its political landscape, particularly as the topic of independence gains traction in the wake of international attention, notably from former President Trump. Leaders from various political parties are articulating their visions, with promises of independence referendums and strengthening national identity at the forefront. The global implications of Greenland’s autonomy could reshape its relationship with both Denmark and the United States.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
