Tensions are escalating within Germany’s governing coalition regarding upcoming appointments to the Federal Constitutional Court. Members of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) have intensified their criticism of the Social Democratic Party’s (SPD) proposed candidates, signaling a deepening rift between the two coalition partners.
CDU Member of the Bundestag Saskia Ludwig, in comments to the “Handelsblatt”, urged SPD parliamentary group leader Matthias Miersch to present a candidate with broader support, capable of securing the necessary two-thirds majority. She specifically described the candidacy of Professor Frauke Brosius-Gersdorf, a nominee from Potsdam, as “maximally unsuitable” citing concerns over her perceived alignment with a particular ideological perspective. Ludwig further questioned Brosius-Gersdorf’s suitability as a university professor, suggesting a review of her professional standing.
CDU parliamentarian Klaus-Peter Willsch echoed these sentiments, expressing personal reservations regarding Brosius-Gersdorf’s candidacy. He articulated a philosophical objection, stating that accepting differing standards for individuals would violate fundamental legal principles enshrined in the German constitution. Willsch called for Brosius-Gersdorf to withdraw her candidacy, clearing the way for a candidate perceived as less entangled in partisan political debates.
The CDU’s remarks have drawn a sharp response from SPD parliamentarian Ralf Stegner, who criticized Ludwig’s statements as unacceptable. Stegner accused the CDU members of collaborating with right-wing extremist elements and demanded that the leaders of the CDU, Friedrich Merz and Jens Spahn, immediately halt this perceived collaboration. The increasingly acrimonious exchange highlights the complexities surrounding the court appointments and the potential for further instability within the governing coalition.
