CDU in Lower Saxony: Barrier to AfD remains - CDU Reaffirms Stance: No Cooperation with Far-Right AfD
The Christian Democrats (CDU) in Germany have reaffirmed their stance against cooperating with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Sebastian Lechner, the CDU state chairman, and Friedrich Merz, the party leader and federal chancellor, have both reiterated this position.
Lechner has consistently ruled out any cooperation with the AfD, stressing the party's responsibility to combat extremism and populism. He stated at the recent CDU state party conference in Osnabrück, 'There will be no cooperation with any extremists and populists in this country.'
Merz, too, has made it clear that under his leadership, there would be no cooperation with the AfD. He has identified the AfD as the 'main opponent' for the upcoming election campaigns. This stance aligns with the CDU's broader strategy to maintain a clear distinction from the AfD, as seen in Lower Saxony.
However, the party is not without internal debate. Prominent CDU politicians like former General Secretary Peter Tauber have suggested a shift in strategy, proposing more pragmatic engagement with the AfD to prevent the CDU's own political marginalization. Merz, while expressing concerns about migration-related issues connected to the AfD, has faced criticism for his remarks about a 'problem' in the party city linked to migration.
Despite internal discussions, the CDU's official stance on the AfD remains unchanged. Lechner and Merz have both underscored their commitment to keeping the CDU separate from the AfD, viewing them as the primary political opponent. The party continues to navigate the complex political landscape, balancing internal debates and external pressures.
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