Løkke: Fonseca funds aren’t bribes and aren’t illegal

Moderaternes formand, udenrigsminister Lars Løkke Rasmussen, denies any illegal actions in offering former party member Mike Fonseca money to relinquish his parliamentary seat. He stated to TV 2 News’ “Lippert” that “of course, there is nothing illegal in this.” In a recording from 2023, Løkke offered Fonseca a six-month salary equivalent to around 370,000 kroner, psychological support, and crisis management. This proposal was declined by Fonseca. The meeting occurred because Fonseca was found to be in a relationship with a 15-year-old girl, violating party conduct codes. The Danish Parliament will discuss the issue after requests from multiple parties. Law expert Jørgen Albæk Jensen suggested the offer contradicts the Constitution’s spirit. Løkke argues it was not bribery but a way to mitigate personal and party damage.