Scandal-hit CSU mayoral candidate wins party backing despite cocaine incident
CSU politician Thomas Pardeller has been at the centre of a storm after being temporarily detained for refusing to hand over a suspicious substance. The CSU has since backed his candidacy for the upcoming municipal elections, despite the incident and questions raised about the party's drug policy.
Pardeller, who is seeking re-election as mayor on March 8, 2023, was stopped by police in Munich in October 2022 with 0.2 grams of cocaine. He admitted his actions were a 'colossal stupidity', blaming personal struggles following the loss of his grandparents. Pardeller was subdued and detained after refusing to hand over a container of suspicious white powder in a separate incident.
The CSU issued a statement supporting Pardeller, arguing that he had harmed no one but himself and owned up to his mistake. However, the party has not responded to questions about its stance on drug use and the haste in supporting Pardeller's candidacy. The CSU's decision to back Pardeller has raised questions about its zero-tolerance drug policy and its stance on drug users. Pardeller's influence on the party's drug policy could make him a historic figure for the CSU.
Pardeller announced he would take a four-week leave to work through his personal issues with therapeutic support. The prerequisite for his re-election is the full and unconditional support of his party and local CSU association, which has maintained his nomination and backs his return to office after the medical treatment.
Thomas Pardeller's actions and the CSU's response have sparked debate about the party's drug policy and its impact on society. Despite the controversy, Pardeller remains the CSU's candidate for the municipal elections, with his re-election dependent on the party's continued support.
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