Christian August Selmer

Who was Christian August Selmer?

Christian August Selmer was a Norwegian politician who served as a member of the Norwegian parliament, minister of defense, minister of justice, and prime minister. He was the second prime minister to serve in Christiania.

Selmer's record as prime minister was characterized by conflict over whether members of the cabinet were required to appear in parliament to answer questions. He influenced King Oscar II to reject efforts at a compromise, setting the stage for impeachment proceedings in 1883 to 1884. Selmer was convicted and removed from office.

It was subsequently found that Selmer had conspired with the king to overrule the impeachment results, institute unlimited veto rights for the king, and use force against any resulting insurrection.