Having led the Sweden Democrats since 2015, Akesson pushes for tougher immigration controls while steering the party toward mainstream acceptance ahead of a decisive vote.
Sweden has held a razor-tight general election on Sunday that could hand the far-right Sweden Democrats cabinet influence for the first time. Polls have narrowed sharply in the final days, leaving centre-left leader Magdalena Andersson and centre-right prime minister Ulf Kristersson competing to form a majority amid worries over immigration, crime and defence spending.