After their research in the Russian archives, the historians Åsmund Egge (Oslo University) and Matthew Lenoe (Rochester University, New York) have revised the traditional interpretations. Contrary to a widespread story, their analysis of the documentary evidence shows Stalin had not ordered Kirov's assissination. However, Stalin shrewdly directed the investigation to show the lone murderer as part of a "conspiracy". In thay manner, Stalin could step-by-step get rid of all serious opposition in the party and thereafter start mass purges that claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of innocent citizens.

The article is available here (in Swedish).