The leader of The Left, Luigi Pantisano, is advocating for cooperation with the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), even while acknowledging the party’s severe criticism. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post,” Pantisano stated that if one is genuinely serious about keeping right-wing extremists out of power, they should not let mistakes stemming from his own statements become an obstacle. He added that collaboration with the CDU is a natural and common practice at the local level nationwide, citing numerous projects where his party has coordinated with them and achieved shared results. He emphasized that his primary concern is always improving people’s lives, asserting that he operates as a pragmatist rather than an ideologue, unlike “some in the Union.”
This current call follows strong remarks Pantisano made at the end of June, during which he harshly criticized the CDU. At the time, he declared, “Ultimately, there is no difference at all between the CDU that engages in fascist politics, the AfD, or the fascists themselves.” He received considerable backlash for this statement. Now, Pantisano has addressed the issue again, telling the “Rheinische Post,” “My statement was wrong, I apologized for it, but hopefully, that has clarified everything.”
Politically, the need for collaboration comes into sharper focus following the state election in Saxony-Anhalt in September, as current polls suggest that both the CDU and The Left might require a partnership to achieve a parliamentary majority without the AfD.
