The Bündnis Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW) is formally challenging the results of the 2025 German federal election, alleging irregularities in the vote count. The party, led by Sahra Wagenknecht and Amira Mohamed Ali, filed a 177-page complaint with the Federal Constitutional Court on Tuesday.
BSW Cites Witness Testimony
The BSW’s challenge centers on statements from eight voters who, under oath, attest to casting ballots for the BSW in polling stations that ultimately recorded zero votes for the party. Simultaneously, these same locations reportedly showed “extremely above-average” results for the minor party, Bündnis Deutschland (BD). These claims are detailed in the complaint, as reported by the magazine “Stern.”
According to BSW party chair Amira Mohamed Ali, “It is demonstrably false results that also clearly point to structural errors in the counting process to the detriment of the BSW.” Wagenknecht echoed this sentiment, stating the party has “clearly demonstrated irregularities and systematic counting errors to our disadvantage.”
Focus on Accuracy, Not Seats
Despite the potential for a recount to alter the parliamentary balance – potentially removing the current governing coalition’s majority – the BSW insists its legal action is not aimed at securing seats in the Bundestag. Instead, the party emphasizes its commitment to ensuring an accurate determination of the election results and maintaining public trust in the democratic process.
The Bundestag’s election review committee previously rejected the BSW’s objections, leading the party to escalate the matter to the Federal Constitutional Court.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BSW alleging?
The BSW alleges that there were structural errors in the counting process that disadvantaged the party, citing sworn statements from voters who claim their votes for the BSW were not counted.
What is the BSW’s stated goal in filing this complaint?
The BSW states its goal is not to gain seats in the Bundestag, but to ensure the accurate determination of the 2025 federal election results and to maintain public trust in the democratic system.
What happens next?
The Federal Constitutional Court will now review the BSW’s 177-page complaint. It is possible the court could order a recount, but that outcome is not guaranteed.
As the BSW pursues this legal challenge, what level of confidence is necessary for citizens to believe in the integrity of the electoral process?
