CDU leaders face criticism from the Greens over their handling of a broadcasting contract issue
The power struggle within Germany's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is intensifying, with conflicting positions between Chancellor Friedrich Merz's leadership and some CDU state branches, particularly in eastern Germany, causing turmoil. This internal division is reflected in contentious policy debates, including over the State Broadcasting Treaty and broader issues like Russia sanctions and Ukraine support.
The latest development in this power struggle came when Michael Kellner, federal executive director of the Greens, urged the CDU leadership to express support for the approval of the State Broadcasting Treaty in Saxony-Anhalt. In a guest article published in the "Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung," Kellner criticized the CDU's lack of clarity in its approach, comparing the arguments of the Magdeburg CDU faction to the "last appearances of the outgoing American president."
Paul Ziemiak, CDU general secretary, responded in a guest article of his own, published in the same newspaper. Ziemiak accused the Greens and Social Democrats of attempting to undermine the CDU's credibility in dealing with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). However, Kellner countered by calling on the CDU leadership to abandon the "tactical both-ways approach" and clearly rule out any cooperation with the AfD, at both federal and state levels.
The State Broadcasting Treaty conflict is emblematic of wider CDU internal disputes and power shifts, influenced by the rise of the AfD and pressure to adjust domestic and foreign policy stances. The far-right AfD’s record gains and role as a parliamentary opposition amplify tensions within the CDU, with some CDU factions showing openness to cooperation or accommodation of AfD positions, which sparks further conflict within the party and across the government.
Meanwhile, the Greens have responded to CDU’s internal struggles, especially in the context of broader coalition difficulties, by expanding their support base and promoting a progressive agenda. The Greens have gained ground in polls and state elections, partly due to CDU scandals and public dissatisfaction. They are positioned as a serious contender for national leadership, advocating climate protection and progressive policies, contrasting with CDU’s internal divisions and more conservative stance under Merz.
In response to Kellner's criticism, Ziemiak stated that the CDU works on solutions "day by day." Kellner, however, emphasized the need for the CDU to make a clear decision on the matter, implying a lack of clarity in the CDU's approach. Kellner also suggested that a minimum requirement would be an open vote in the plenary session of the state parliament.
The power struggle within the CDU, according to Kellner, is driven by ideological and regional splits exacerbated by the AfD’s rise, impacting policy areas like the State Broadcasting Treaty. The parliament, according to Kellner, is the body that decides on the approval of the State Broadcasting Treaty in Saxony-Anhalt.
In summary, the CDU’s power struggle is intensifying, with Kellner criticizing the CDU leadership for dangerous maneuvering in the conflict over the State Broadcasting Treaty. The Greens, on the other hand, are capitalizing on the CDU’s internal struggles and waning popularity, positioning themselves as alternatives and advocating a progressive agenda. The outcome of this power struggle within the CDU will have significant implications for German politics and policy-making.
Other parties, such as the Greens, are using the CDU's internal conflicts to expand their support base and promote their progressive agenda, highlighting the importance of clear policy-and-legislation decisions in this period of general-news politics. The parliament, specifically in Saxony-Anhalt, plays a crucial role in determining the fate of policy issues like the State Broadcasting Treaty, which has become emblematic of the wider CDU power struggle.
