The status of Kópavogur mayor Gunnar Birgisson, who has faced repeated calls to resign in the wake of charges of corruption and nepotism, still remains uncertain.
It was recently brought to light that the city had made several lucrative contracts with the company Frjáls miðlun – which happens to be owned by his daughter. In response, many members of Kópavogur city council have called for Birgisson to resign. An investigation conducted by Deloitte arrived at the conclusion that there were a number of questionable points in the town council accounting, and that there is a possibility that illegal activity occured.
“I don’t see what I’ve done wrong,” Birgisson told radio station Rás 2 at the time, contending furthermore that the Deloitte report does not connect him with business between the town and Frjáls miðlun.
Despite this, it became apparent that Birgisson was not long for the mayor’s office. A deal was reached yesterday that would have him resign as mayor, but continue to serve on Kópavogur town council. According to Ómar Stefánsson of the Progressive Party, which maintains the majority seats with the Independence Party, this deal was itself proposed by Birgisson.
However, members of Birgisson’s own party have expressed dissatisfaction with the deal, and are hoping to work out a new majority with another party. It is uncertain which party that would be, as the call for resignation seems more or less unanimous. A conclusion to this matter is expected this evening.