Former Siemens CEO Joe Kaeser has advised Chancellor Friedrich Merz of the CDU that the formation of a minority government is necessary. Speaking to the “Tagesspiegel”, Kaeser expressed concern not just about the failure of the CDU and SPD coalition, but what would happen if it remains in its current form. He argued that a federal government unable to meet voter expectations is simply a waste of time.
According to Kaeser, if the ruling coalition cannot implement the necessary structural reforms, establishing a minority government represents the “ultimate remedy”. He suggested this measured step would serve to restore democratic order and act as a final chance before the AfD could acquire a majority at the federal level.
Furthermore, Kaeser strongly criticized the term “brandmauer” (firewall) used concerning the AfD, labeling it “terminologically incorrect and extremely questionable”. He pointed out that the word “brand” evokes memories of the Night of Crystals, and “mauer” signifies the pain of German division. Suggesting that a mere quarter of voters do not belong is, in his view, a dangerous error.
Reviewing the first year of the black-red coalition, the former Siemens executive called it a disappointment. He likened his assessment to receiving mediocre school grades that merely stated, “He was always attempting” emphasizing that success must be judged by results.
