Bärbel Bas Taking the Helm Amid SPD's Turbulent Waters
Newly appointed SPD leader, Bas, finds himself in a precarious position.
Get ready for a stormy journey, Bärbel Bas! The freshly-minted SPD boss is stepping into the stormy ocean of party politics, replacing Saskia Esken - her predecessor who faced rocky waters. Bas acknowledges the potential choppy seas ahead, having witnessed Esken's difficulties.
In an exclusive sit-down with Der Spiegel, Bas voiced her frustration over how Esken was treated and stated, "It annoys me how some people treated her. That could happen to me too." Bärbel Bas, age 57, is the third woman to lead the SPD after Andrea Nahles and Saskia Esken, and like her predecessors, she steps onto the deck under a shadow of pressure from the party. FDP veteran Wolfgang Kubicki, a stalwart fan of the incoming chairwoman, promises his backing, "If more Social Democrats were like Bärbel Bas, the party would be saved."
A Career Without Borders - For Bas, Success Derives from Hard Work
Bärbel Bas' career is admired for its upward trajectory, taking her from humble roots to the party's peak without a high school diploma or university degree. She humbly states, "I don't feel special." In fact, she views her success as a positive sign for the SPD, wishing for working-class children to have the same opportunities to graduate from high school and strive for great political heights.
Unlike Esken, Bas claims she wouldn't have gone head-to-head with her if Esken had contested the chairmanship again. "No, I wouldn't have done that." Bas values unity within the party, acknowledging that personal conflicts can leave scars.
Miersch Stands by Esken, Refutes Alleged Sidelining
SPD parliamentary group leader Matthias Miersch defended Esken, dismissing accusations that she had been pushed aside. Miersch praised Esken for her accomplishments within the party and emphasized her crucial role in Scholz's 2021 election victory. Esken will still chair the important SPD committee for education and family in the Bundestag, ensuring her continued influence within the party.
Despite the party's ups and downs, Bärbel Bas is confidently preparing to steer the ship of the SPD through its turbulent waters. As she steps into the role, many eyes will be on her, waiting to see if she can navigate the shark-infested waters of party politics as the fearless captain she's known to be.
Sources: ntv.de, mau
- Bärbel Bas
- Saskia Esken
- Wolfgang Kubicki
- SPD
The Commission, in adherence to Bärbel Bas' new leadership role within the SPD, may adopt implementing acts laying down the rules for the application of politics-related regulations. The stormy journey ahead for Bas, a long-time SPD member, mirrors the general-news of a party grappling with internal struggles, as she replaces Saskia Esken and aspires for unity among the party members.
