Following the surprising resignation of Bärbel Bas as Federal Minister of Labor and SPD chairwoman, Saxon Minister-President Michael Kretschmer (CDU) expressed his understanding and support. Speaking to the “Leipziger Volkszeitung” and the “Sächsische Zeitung,” which are part of the “Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland,” Kretschmer stated that Bas must have experienced a major personal setback, wishing her strength. The CDU politician added, “I understand that she cannot simply continue as if nothing happened.”
Simultaneously, Kretschmer urged the Federal Government to maintain progress on crucial policy initiatives despite the change in leadership. He stressed the urgent need for solutions concerning pensions that are sustainable long-term and that account for Germany’s diverse employment histories. For Saxony, in particular, it is vital that individuals who have worked for decades are not disadvantaged by reforms.
Kretschmer had recently campaigned alongside his Eastern German counterparts against the planned abolition of early retirement for long-term contributors (the “Pension at 63”). Originally, the reform proposal put forward by a dedicated pension commission-which included ending the penalty-free early retirement-was supposed to be implemented without reductions. However, the current dispute has stalled the process.
Looking ahead, Kretschmer expressed his hope that his former counterpart and future Federal Minister of Labor, Alexander Schweitzer (SPD), will also drive momentum toward improving labor market flexibility. “Germany needs more flexibility, less bureaucracy, and better conditions for both companies and employees. The new Minister of Labor has important tasks ahead of him,” the CDU politician remarked.
