Jürgen Marks, the spokesman for the Bavarian Ministry of Economics, reacted with shock to the news of the death of his superior, Hubert Aiwanger (Free Voters). Marks reported to the news outlet “Welt” that he had accompanied Aiwanger just last Thursday on a delegation trip to Poland. He spoke about Aiwanger, saying he was “full of energy, full of driving force. He was close to the people, as one would have known him.”
Marks added that Aiwanger always dedicated himself “with full strength and passion to the economy of Bavaria and to the people in Bavaria.” Stating that they were all shocked and distressed, he remarked, “He was so full of strength and driving force that none of us could have expected it. Currently, we all don’t know exactly how his void can be filled.” The ministry is currently overwhelmed by deep sadness and stupor. Staff members gathered in the offices, shedding tears, finding it difficult to process the news. “We still cannot believe it. We are now waiting for the return of the State Secretary, and then we will provide more details on how things will proceed in a press conference tomorrow.”
Tobias Gotthardt, also from the Free Voters, who serves as State Secretary, is currently en route to Munich to assume the responsibilities. He was previously on a delegation trip to Singapore. Gotthardt confirmed he is immediately getting on a flight and will be in Bavaria tomorrow to take over his duties. He added that State Secretary Sabine Jarothe and Ministerial Director Frank Messerer will assist him. “Tomorrow, we will consult and decide how things should move forward.”
Aiwanger, who was 55 years old, was found dead on Wednesday in a hotel in Berlin. While the exact circumstances remain unclear, there are apparently no indications of foul play.
