The Saarland’s Minister President, Anke Rehlinger, has forcefully defended Federal Labour Minister Bärbel Bas amid a public spat with employer associations, highlighting deepening divisions within the governing coalition and raising critical questions about the government’s overall performance. Rehlinger’s remarks to the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung underscored a growing frustration within the SPD regarding the coalition’s handling of industrial relations and public perception.
Bas’s recent comments, perceived by some as combative towards employers during the Arbeitgebertag (employer convention), sparked a backlash that Rehlinger swiftly rebuked. “It’s hardly elegant to mock the Labour Minister at the Employer Convention” she stated, advocating for a more conciliatory approach while underlining the importance of ministers being able to speak plainly. Rehlinger further clarified the SPD’s position, emphasizing their commitment to advocating for worker interests – not engaging in “class warfare” – and stressed the need for a strong social democratic voice in negotiations with employers.
In a broader critique, Rehlinger attributed the current unpopularity of the federal government to “technical errors” and operational missteps, moving away from a deflection of blame. She suggested that perceived handling issues are not inherently attributable to the SPD, but rather to the coalition’s inability to implement policies effectively. Rehlinger expressed concern about the government’s dwindling public support, arguing that citizens expect decisive action rather than protracted internal disagreements.
Looking ahead, Rehlinger expressed confidence in the passage of the pension reform bill, acknowledging the significance of securing a vote supported by the Chancellor. She sharply criticized the CDU/CSU for fostering “unrealistic expectations” during the last election campaign, specifically citing former CDU leader Friedrich Merz’s pronouncements about the economy and the CDU’s unrealistic pledges regarding cuts to social welfare programs like Bürgergeld (citizen’s allowance).
Regarding the rising support for the AfD, Rehlinger identified widespread anxieties about the future as a key driver. She characterized this trend as a mandate to instill hope and optimism in a population increasingly apprehensive about the direction of the country. Rehlinger’s comments suggest a recognition that addressing the root causes of disillusionment – which extend beyond purely economic concerns – is crucial in combating the rise of extremist political movements.
