Steffen Krach, the chairman of the SPD in Berlin and the chair of the SPD faction, has tied a potential coalition with the Greens and the Left Party to strict conditions regarding the fight against antisemitism. Speaking to the television channel “Welt”, Krach stated: “If the leadership of the Left Party cannot enforce appropriate positions within its own ranks, this coalition will not come about. That is perfectly clear.” The SPD politician emphasized that establishing an agreement to handle antisemitism prior to detailed discussions is a novel development.
However, he also acknowledged that the concerns raised by Jewish organizations and communities must be taken seriously. “I know the concerns of the Central Council and of many representatives of the Jewish communities, and I take them very seriously,” Krach said. Yet, the agreement is viewed as a crucial step. According to the Berlin SPD chief, the expectation is clear for all three parties: if antisemitic incidents occur, clear consequences must be drawn, up to and including expulsion from the faction.
Regarding potential internal resistance within the Berlin Left Party concerning this agreement, Krach pointed to the responsibility of the party leadership. “This is now the task of the two chairpersons of the Left Party to resolve. It is not my task, but we will watch this very closely. We have clear agreements, clear expectations. I stated at this table that I do not accept antisemitism in the Senate,” he told “Welt”. Krach rejected the idea of making a final assessment of individual deputies. While the new faction comprises 45 members, 37 of whom are new, the agreed rules must be applied if antisemitism is discovered in any member. These rules apply to all members of the three factions involved.
