The co-leader of Germany’s Left Party, Ines Schwerdtner, has revealed details of an agreement reached with the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in May, aimed at facilitating a second ballot in the election for the country’s Chancellor.
Speaking Sunday in an interview with public broadcaster ZDF, Schwerdtner stated that CDU parliamentarians actively sought support from her party to ensure a runoff vote. She asserted that the CDU made certain concessions to the Left Party in return, which she now expects them to uphold.
According to Schwerdtner, these concessions necessitate future consultation with the Left Party on matters requiring a two-thirds majority in parliament. Specifically, she cited the selection of judges for the Federal Constitutional Court and potential reforms to the country’s debt brake, as areas where CDU cooperation is crucial. She argued that, despite existing resolutions formally prohibiting collaboration with the Left Party, the CDU must engage with them to maintain its ability to govern effectively.
Following the recent failure to elect Frauke Brosius-Gersdorf as a Constitutional Court judge, Schwerdtner anticipates a renewed proposal from the CDU and Social Democrats (SPD), with the Left Party included in the subsequent negotiations.
Beyond parliamentary procedures, Schwerdtner also called for the establishment of an investigative committee to examine the procurement of protective masks during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the actions of former Health Minister Jens Spahn (CDU). She indicated that securing sufficient support for such a committee would require cooperation from SPD or CDU members, in order to avoid reliance on backing from the Alternative for Germany (AfD).
