Merkel Challenges CDU Leadership Over Far-Right Collaboration

Angela Merkel criticized CDU leader Friedrich Merz for collaborating with the far-right Alternative for Germany in a parliamentary vote, claiming it undermines democratic values. This unexpected intervention highlights tensions within the CDU ahead of upcoming elections.

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel has stepped into the political fray with an unprecedented critique of her party leader, Friedrich Merz, over his recent collaboration with the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD). In a pointed statement, Merkel denounced Merz's support for a motion that emerged from this alliance, which resulted in the passage of a non-binding resolution advocating for stricter immigration policies.

Merkel scolded Merz for violating a prior commitment he made in November to collaborate solely with the Social Democratic Party and the Greens, rather than with the AfD. She expressed concerns that by permitting the far-right to influence parliamentary outcomes, a dangerous precedent was being set, potentially granting the AfD significant leverage in future legislative matters. "I think it is wrong to no longer feel bound by this proposal and thereby knowingly allow the AfD to gain a majority," Merkel stated.

The atmosphere in the Bundestag became tense as heckling erupted following the vote on Wednesday, marking a significant departure from established political norms in Germany. While Merz defended his stance by arguing that the merit of a policy is independent of who supports it, this rationale did little to assuage concerns among party members and opponents alike. He firmly stated that he had not sought the AfD’s backing, indicating a reluctance to fully engage with their ideology.

This unexpected public criticism is notable, especially given Merkel's longstanding relationship with Merz, which has been fraught with tension since he was sidelined in the early 2000s during a CDU leadership struggle. With Merkel embodying a more centrist approach and Merz aligning with the party's traditional conservative wing, their differing visions for the CDU are starkly evident.

Current Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the vote, labeling it an "unforgivable mistake" and emphasizing the historical consensus among democratic forces in Germany against alliances with far-right factions. As Merz prepares to propose further legislation that could garner AfD support, the fallout from this parliamentary vote threatens to escalate throughout German politics, fueling an already intense narrative as the country heads towards elections.