Merkel slams CDU‑AfD cooperation, stresses democratic unity
Angela Merkel, the former Chancellor of Germany, firmly defends her criticism of the CDU for cooperating with the AfD, emphasizing that it is "a question of fundamental importance."
Angela Merkel expressed her concern over the CDU’s cooperation with the right-wing populist AfD at an event organized by the magazine "Die Zeit" in Hamburg. She emphasized that this cooperation is a "matter of fundamental importance."
Merkel pointed to the growing polarization in German politics, particularly in the context of the election campaign. "After last week's events in the Bundestag, the democratic parties have become polarized," Merkel observed, as quoted by the "Spiegel" weekly portal.
The former Chancellor called on parties to maintain moderation and a readiness for compromise. "It is right for different positions to be clearly presented in the election campaign. But there simply must be a readiness for compromise," she added.
Controversial vote in the Bundestag
Last week, CDU leader Friedrich Merz submitted proposals for tightening migration policy to a vote in the Bundestag, knowing that a majority was only possible with the help of the AfD. The draft resolution was passed with the votes of the AfD, while the bill itself failed. In a rare public statement, Merkel called it a mistake. "I do not interfere in normal political disputes, but I considered this to be a matter of fundamental importance," said the former Chancellor.
Defense of refugee policy
Merkel also defended her refugee policy from 2015 to 2021. "I do not think the refugee policy of the last ten years was wrong," she stated. However, she noted that there is still much to be done, especially in terms of enforcing the obligation to leave the country and digitizing immigration offices.
The former Chancellor has been criticized by many political circles for allowing mass migration since 2015. Her statements and actions continue to spark controversy in German politics.
