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German CDU Politician Faces Backlash Over Shared Nazi-Era Military Video

A misjudged WhatsApp post sparks outrage as a CDU lawmaker steps down. How did a vintage military video ignite a political firestorm in Germany?

The image shows a black and white photo of a man in a military uniform, believed to be Frederick V...
The image shows a black and white photo of a man in a military uniform, believed to be Frederick V of Berlin, with a mustache. At the bottom of the image, there is some text.

German CDU Politician Faces Backlash Over Shared Nazi-Era Military Video

A CDU politician in Brandenburg has faced backlash after sharing a video featuring restored Nazi-era military vehicles. Frank Bommert, deputy leader of the CDU parliamentary group, posted the clip on WhatsApp before deleting it. The incident has prompted internal discussions and a formal response from the party. The controversy began when Bommert shared a video showing enthusiasts in uniform riding vintage Wehrmacht motorcycles. The footage, which included restored military vehicles from Nazi Germany, quickly drew criticism. In response, he admitted the post was a mistake and resigned as chair of the state parliament's economic committee.

The CDU parliamentary group issued a formal reprimand but did not remove Bommert from his other party roles. Group leader Steeven Bretz made it clear he strongly opposed the video's content and its sharing. Bretz also announced plans to speak directly with Bommert about the incident.

The CDU confirmed the matter would be reviewed internally. This follows earlier criticism of Bommert for a separate WhatsApp status naming politicians like Robert Habeck and Annalena Baerbock as his favourites. No similar cases involving Brandenburg CDU members have been reported in recent years. Bommert has stepped down from one leadership position but remains in the CDU parliamentary group. The party has taken internal action but stopped short of further sanctions. The incident highlights ongoing scrutiny of political figures' public statements and social media activity.

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