Maren Sømme memorial in Stavanger draws hundreds, sparks political controversy

More than a hundred people gathered in Stavanger’s Byparken to remember Maren Sømme, a young woman whose death has been described as a "warned tragedy" by her family. Attendees brought roses and placards, expressing solidarity with women at risk of partner violence. Local politician Tina Gran said, "We gather to remember Maren Sømme… for all women still in danger," while Hå municipality deputy mayor Svein Arve Nygård added, "Our thoughts and compassion go first to the bereaved."

The suspect, Afghan national Nawid Bayan, was expelled from Norway in 2011 and could not be returned to Afghanistan because it was deemed too dangerous. A planned speaking slot for journalist Espen Teigen and presenter Jannicke Almenning was cancelled after accusations from far‑left groups that they were aligned with the "far right," leading to a brief cancellation of the event before it resumed at Youngstorget.

The memorial highlighted ongoing concerns about partner violence in Norway and sparked debate over political freedom at public commemorations.