Former SPD chairman Martin Schulz defended Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil against criticism from within his own party and called on his party to show unity. Schulz told Welt am Sonntag that no one had had a greater track record of success in coalition negotiations than Lars Klingbeil. Klingbeil is being treated in a way that is irrational.
Schulz pointed to the results of the coalition negotiations with the Union, including investments exceeding 500 billion Euros, additional funds for defense, and the relaxation of the debt brake. The former SPD chancellor candidate said that essentially, there should be signs everywhere in the country at construction sites: The Federal Republic is building thanks to Lars Klingbeil.
Others sharply criticized Schulz’s demands that Klingbeil step down as party chairman and focus on his duties as Finance Minister and Vice Chancellor. What problem would that solve, asked the criticism-it would only create an additional one. They stated that one of the major mistakes of the SPD is believing that solving problems by changing one person.
Looking ahead to the next SPD party conference, Schulz called for a decision on direction and support for the government team. He argued that they had to ask themselves whether they would continue to divide themselves or whether they would give the government team, led by Lars Klingbeil, the chance to govern successfully. He wished for a clear commitment to the achievements so far and their implementation in the coming two years.
Mixed
