Green Party's New Leader Vows Dialogue as Youth Wing Gains Clout

Felix Banaszak, the Green Party leader, has expressed respect and gratitude towards outgoing leaders Jakob Blasel and Jette Nietzard, committing to further discussions with the Green Youth. Meanwhile, Nietzard's farewell speech saw her criticising the Green Party and expressing her belief in the Green Youth.

The Green Youth, who recently held a protest banner during Banaszak's speech, politely asked him to 'turn left'. This action reflects their desire for a more progressive stance within the party. The Green Youth has seen a membership boost, growing from 16,700 members in January to 18,900 in July.

Blasel, Nietzard's co-chairman, has decided not to run for re-election, choosing to focus on climate protection and his studies. Nietzard herself made a similar decision in July. Despite this, Henriette Held, the new youth spokeswoman, has demanded that the party listen more to the Green Youth and become the 'party of big dreams'. She, along with Luis Bobga, was elected as the new federal chairpersons with overwhelming support, receiving 93.6% and 76.2% of the votes respectively.

Blasel, in his farewell speech, criticised the Green Party for not tackling the 'real culprits of the crisis' and accused them of 'cowardice'. This echoes the Green Youth's sentiment, who have previously accused Nietzard of abusing her power and harassing those with differing opinions.

The Green Youth, with their increased membership and vocal demands, are playing an influential role in shaping the Green Party's future. Despite internal disagreements, both parties have expressed a willingness to work together, with Banaszak committing to further discussions and Held holding out an olive branch.