Ahead of Friday’s election for two judges on the Federal Constitutional Court, Heidi Reichinnek, a member of the Left party, has accused the Union (CDU/CSU) of being willing to compromise with the Alternative for Germany (AfD).
Reichinnek, in comments to Politico, expressed concern that the Union risks pushing through a proposal “together with the AfD, which is undeniably situated on the far-right spectrum”. She emphasized the Left party’s commitment to avoiding partisan maneuvering, stating, “We will not engage in a bartering process. Unlike the Union, our focus is not on ideological gains, but on principles.
Regarding the judge selection process, Reichinnek stressed the importance of ensuring that all members of the Federal Constitutional Court have the backing of a robust democratic majority. “It is the responsibility of the proposing faction to engage in discussions with all democratic forces” she stated. “The Union has, to date, failed to achieve this.
Addressing the participation of her own party’s representatives, Reichinnek affirmed that the Left faction intended to ensure a full presence, barring illness.
Beyond the immediate judge selection, Reichinnek called on the CDU/CSU to demonstrate flexibility, not solely in this context but also within parliamentary oversight bodies and investigative committees. She dismissed the notion of seeking positions, instead highlighting the necessity of democratic control. Reichinnek posed a direct question: “Are we to continue using the AfD as leverage?” or will parties collaborate “with all democrats” to counter a far-right political force.
