Helmer Krane, a deputy of the FDP in Schleswig-Holstein, has confirmed that he was appointed as Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann’s Secretary General just before her surprise run for the party chairmanship. Speaking in the Politicalico Berlin Playbook podcast, Krane stated, “I found out on Friday”. He subsequently described her candidacy against the eventual party leader, Wolfgang Kubicki, as “the correct decision”.
Krane defended the unexpected campaign as a signal to the various internal factions of the party. According to him, the FDP will not become more insular, but will instead offer a home for “all liberals of different streams”. He suggested the competition allowed many members to recognize that they were “still at home”.
Furthermore, Krane explained that the candidacy was motivated partly by the withdrawal of Henning Höne, the FDP state leader in North Rhine-Westphalia. He noted that the original contest that was anticipated “was concluded behind the scenes” which subsequently led to the need for another candidate.
Following Kubicki’s victory, Krane advocated for unity within the party. Stressing that “agreement arises from discussion” he acknowledged that initial reactions after the party convention were “not particularly unifying” but emphasized that the collaboration of “all unified forces” was now crucial.
Regarding potential friction within his home state of Schleswig-Holstein-a region from which both he and Kubicki originate-Krane remained calm. He highlighted that the local association is notable for producing “strong, profiled personalities” who are not afraid to state their opinions.
