Sahra Wagenknecht, founder of the BSW party, stated that she does not believe Ilse Aigner is the right candidate for the position of Federal President. Speaking on the Monday program “Blome & Pfeffer” on ntv, she remarked that proposing Aigner is “not what we need.” Wagenknecht noted that there is no real objection to the CSU politician, but added that Aigner lacks substantial attributes other than her gender, suggesting that Herr Söder might be merely trying to eliminate a competitor.
Wagenknecht argued that during a period of deepening societal division, Germany requires a Federal President “who has something to say, who can contribute something, and who can reach the various camps.” She expressed a hope that political parties would consider selecting a candidate from outside the political arena-someone who enjoys broad public recognition.
In considering potential figures, Wagenknecht named the writer Juli Zeh, describing her as a “very honest, very smart woman.” She also found the publicist Gabriele Krone-Schmalz suitable. Looking at the increasing confrontation with Russia, which could possibly escalate into war, Wagenknecht stated that Krone-Schmalz “would be a voice of reason.” When journalist Jörg Thadeusz criticized Krone-Schmalz, labeling her a “Putin propagandist,” Wagenknecht countered by saying, “For you, anyone who advocates for peace and diplomacy is a Putin propagandist. That is unfortunately the debate in Germany right now.” However, the BSW is expected not to put forward its own nomination, as the party feels that with its relatively small number of votes, it would be unwise to “sacrifice” a candidate by putting them in the race without any chance of success.
