A recent letter detailing escalating personal attacks against Green Party officials in Thuringia has prompted concern at the party’s national leadership.
Felix Banaszak, the party’s national chairperson, expressed deep concern regarding the accounts shared by two Thuringian colleagues. He affirmed ongoing close communication with the state branch and reiterated the party’s solidarity. “The physical and mental strain described is indicative of a political reality that should alarm all democrats and is unacceptable” Banaszak stated.
The officials’ letter highlighted the potential for withdrawal from their political roles, a situation Banaszak emphasized extends beyond the Green Party itself. “This affects democracy at its core. When volunteers are silenced, the social fabric is put at risk” he said.
The letter also directed criticism toward Thuringia’s Interior Minister, Georg Maier (SPD), alleging a lack of improvement in the state’s security situation during his eight years in office and questioning the effectiveness of his preventative measures. Banaszak placed responsibility for ensuring safety within affected districts on the Interior Ministry.
As part of his upcoming summer tour, Banaszak plans to visit Thuringia, emphasizing his intention to engage with communities beyond those offering straightforward support. He asserted the party’s resilience, adding, “Those who hope to intimidate or marginalize us will fail”.
