The calls for a reconsideration of the policy of excluding the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party have sparked a strong rebuke from Thuringia’s Interior Minister Georg Maier. In an interview with the “Handelsblatt”, Maier accused Sahra Wagenknecht, leader of the Basis Movement for a Social Alternative (BSW), of attempting to destabilize the ruling coalition in the state.
Thuringia is currently governed by a coalition comprised of BSW, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Social Democratic Party (SPD). The agreement stipulates a strict prohibition against collaboration with the AfD, a condition repeatedly affirmed according to Maier. Frank Augsten, parliamentary group leader of BSW in Thuringia, reportedly reinforced this commitment last Friday, emphasizing the ongoing trust-based cooperation within the cabinet.
Recent statements from Wagenknecht have suggested a potential willingness to engage in discussions with the AfD. While she clarified that formal talks are not currently underway and dismissing earlier discussion as speculative, she indicated openness to dialogue with AfD co-leader Tino Chrupalla under specific circumstances, referencing a previous interaction between parliamentary leaders. Wagenknecht framed this approach as a standard practice within a democratic system.
Maier dismissed Wagenknecht’s comments as “interference from outside” asserting that they are intended to disrupt the established political dynamics and hinder the government’s ability to effectively govern. He underscored the coalition’s determination to maintain its course and focus on delivering positive outcomes for the state.
