A Greenlandic MP has accused members of her own country’s political party of disloyalty toward the Greenlandic people after contacts with American “MAGA” politicians reignited debate over Greenland’s future relationship with Denmark.
Rising Political Tension Between Greenlandic Lawmakers
A growing rift has emerged among Greenland’s political leaders after harsh criticism from Danish Parliament member Aaja Chemnitz. She accused members of the Naleraq party, especially Kuno Fencker, of acting against the interests of the Greenlandic majority following Fencker’s meetings with American lawmakers linked to the MAGA movement in Washington, D.C.
According to Chemnitz, discussions about speedy independence and activating section 21 of the Self-Government Act were “reckless” and have intensified political instability. She argued that recent conflicts in Greenland’s relations with both Denmark and the United States can be traced back to such dialogue.
Meanwhile, Fencker rejects those claims and insists his actions were motivated by a desire to strengthen Greenland’s position, not to harm it.
Push for Independence Under Self-Government Law
At the center of the dispute is section 21 of Greenland’s Self-Government Act, which outlines the process for initiating talks about full independence from Denmark. The debate touches the core of why and how Greenland was granted autonomy from Denmark in the first place.
Kuno Fencker, formerly of the Siumut party and now with Naleraq, advocates for activating section 21 to begin the independence process. He argues that Greenland must define its own sovereignty and shape a new partnership with Denmark on equal terms. Another Naleraq member, Aki-Matilda Høegh-Dam, also publicly supported that stance, saying self-determination is part of an international rule-based order.
Still, others fear the move could isolate Greenland and strain ties with Denmark and European allies at a delicate time.
US Involvement and MAGA Connections
Fencker’s trip to Washington one year ago sparked the controversy. During his visit, he met U.S. Congressman Andy Ogles, who had proposed the “Make Greenland Great Again Act.” That visit coincided with then-Prime Minister Múte B. Egede’s instruction that all communication between the United States and Greenland go through official diplomatic channels.
Critics argue that Fencker’s outreach to MAGA figures revived old tensions dating back to when former President Donald Trump expressed interest in purchasing Greenland, as reported in Trump sparks new fears over Greenland ambitions. Fencker, however, maintains that he spoke with a variety of U.S. officials and parties, both Republican and Democratic, stressing his opposition to any notion of selling or annexing Greenland.
Local Reactions and Accusations
The exchange between Chemnitz and Fencker led to a police complaint last year when Fencker filed a report against Chemnitz for calling his outreach “damaging to the nation.” He later withdrew it, and the case never progressed. Today, both sides continue to stand their ground. Chemnitz insists that those responsible for bringing about current tensions must take responsibility. Fencker replies that he is simply fighting for Greenland’s independence, not on behalf of foreign interests.
He said he refuses to fuel more division in Greenlandic politics. To him, the real issue is that Greenland risks remaining a “de facto colony” if independence talks do not move forward. He believes activating section 21 is the key to avoiding that outcome.
A Matter of Unity and Perception
Despite her criticism, Chemnitz said unity remains essential for the Greenlandic people. She argues that external actors should not confuse statements from small opposition groups with the official positions of Greenland’s government. This, she believes, is why clarity and factual communication are crucial right now.
Naleraq leader Pele Broberg declined to comment on the accusations. TV 2 stated it was awaiting a response from Aki-Matilda Høegh-Dam at the time of publication.
As the debate continues, Greenland finds itself once again pulled between internal divisions and external interests. Whether the push for independence gains momentum or gives way to reconciliation with Denmark may depend on how Greenland’s leaders handle their disagreements in the months ahead.
Sources and References
The Danish Dream: Why was Greenland granted autonomy from Denmark?
The Danish Dream: Trump sparks new fears over Greenland ambitions
TV2: Grønlandsk politiker beskylder parti for landsforræderi
