Divisions are emerging within Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) regarding cooperation with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). Armin Menzel, CDU faction leader in the Niesky city council in Saxony, has called for an end to the “firewall” against the AfD at the federal level. However, Chancellor Friedrich Merz has firmly rejected any cooperation and issued a warning to party colleagues in the East.
The debate centers on whether to lift the strict prohibition on cooperating with the AfD. Menzel stated to “Spiegel” that he rejects any firewall “categorically and without exception,” arguing it makes no sense to exclude the AfD, “even in Dresden or Berlin.”
Menzel recently collaborated with his brother, Merten Menzel, an AfD city council member, to initiate a vote of no confidence against the mayor of Niesky. Despite the mayor being nominated by the CDU, Armin Menzel claimed she had “never adhered to agreements and did not have control of her administration.” The motion narrowly failed to achieve the required three-quarters majority.
The breaking of the firewall is not limited to Niesky. In Pasewalk, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, all 13 CDU representatives present voted in favor of an AfD motion for a bridge construction project in October, despite the county having no authority over the matter.
While those involved deny formal collaboration, AfD representative Nikolaus Kramer expressed surprise at the CDU’s support, stating, “There was no prior agreement with the CDU.” CDU faction leader Jeannette von Busse similarly stated, “For us, this is not a collaboration; we examine the content of all motions.”
Merz Reinforces AfD Exclusion
Chancellor Merz has urged CDU state associations to uphold the ban on cooperating with the AfD. Following a CDU party conference, Merz told RTL/ntv that “even party friends in the East are part of the CDU Germany” and share a “common responsibility for our country.” He affirmed his position on the AfD, advising party members to align with it.
Merz explained at the party conference that the CDU cannot cooperate with the AfD because it challenges the foundations of the Federal Republic of Germany. He stated he is “not prepared to jeopardize this legacy as Chancellor and party leader for short-term gains.” He asserted his message was clear and expected it to be understood by all.
Merz stated that his decision limits potential coalition partners to the Social Democratic Party (SPD). He emphasized the importance of the CDU preserving the country’s historical legacy rather than pursuing short-term power with right-wing populist forces. He concluded by stating the CDU will not allow the AfD to “ruin our country” and must fight to prevent right-wing extremism from entering state chancellories in upcoming elections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current stance of the CDU leadership regarding cooperation with the AfD?
Chancellor Friedrich Merz has firmly rejected any cooperation with the AfD, stating the CDU will not work with the party “before, after, or ever.” He has warned CDU members, particularly in eastern Germany, to adhere to this position.
Has the CDU already cooperated with the AfD in specific instances?
Yes, in Pasewalk, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, all 13 CDU representatives present voted in favor of an AfD motion in October, and in Niesky, CDU and AfD members jointly attempted to remove the mayor from office.
What is Armin Menzel’s position on cooperating with the AfD?
Armin Menzel, CDU faction leader in Niesky, has called for an end to the “firewall” against the AfD, arguing that excluding the party is counterproductive.
As these divisions within the CDU continue, what impact will they have on the political landscape in Germany, particularly in the lead-up to upcoming elections?
