The unexpected resignation of Federal Minister of Labor and leader of the SPD, Bärbel Bas, is causing fresh tensions within the black-red coalition.
CDU Minister-President Gordon Schnieder expressed understanding regarding the SPD politician’s personal decision, but he firmly dismissed her criticisms of the coalition’s political handling of matters. Speaking to the television broadcaster “Welt,” he stated, “I cannot comprehend that part of the statement. One simply has to tolerate that. If agreements are not met, if corresponding drafts are not put on the table, and if things do not proceed into the cabinet, then one must eventually ask why that is not the case.”
With Bas’ departure, Schnieder now feels the SPD is obligated to finally present the pension reform that has been under discussion for months. “There is a clear agreement in the coalition contract. There are also clear commitments made in the coalition committee. We must push this pension reform through,” he insisted. “We need contribution stability, and we finally need a future prospect for the people in this country, namely that old-age provision will be secure in the future and better than what we have now. The draft was never presented by Bärbel Bas. The SPD is urged to do so.”
While Schnieder did not confirm whether Bas had been the key obstacle to the reform, he did note that, “We are waiting for the corresponding drafts, and they must come-they must come from their party or should come from their party. Now, the successor is urged to take this up.”
