A prominent figure in Hessian politics, Christean Wagner, has died at the age of 82. The Hessian State Chancellery in Wiesbaden confirmed his passing on Saturday.
Wagner, a member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), held significant influence within the conservative wing of the party. He served as Minister of Culture under Prime Minister Walter Wallmann from 1987 to 1991 and later held the position of Justice Minister during Roland Koch’s tenure from 1999.
His time as Justice Minister saw the introduction of electronic monitoring (ankle bracelets) as part of Hessen’s justice system. Wagner also held the leadership of the CDU parliamentary group in the state parliament from 2005 until January 2014, a position of considerable influence.
Current Prime Minister Boris Rhein (CDU) described Wagner as “a defining voice in Hessian politics” noting his significant contribution to the state and national political landscape. Rhein expressed profound sadness at his loss, stating it leaves a “deep and painful void” and extended his condolences to Wagner’s family and friends.
