Alice Weidel, co-leader of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has stated she finds the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz’s refusal to consider cooperation with her party to be “very credible.
In a recent interview with German broadcaster ARD, Weidel characterized Merz’s stance as self-imposed, suggesting he has “strategically walled himself in” and is consequently pursuing policies aligned with the left-leaning Social Democratic Party (SPD). She accused Merz of being unduly influenced by the SPD, stating he appears willing to be “led through the circus by the losing party”. Weidel expressed concern regarding the lack of discernible CDU policy direction.
Despite the criticism, Weidel affirmed the AfD’s willingness to engage in discussions with the CDU and Merz, even suggesting a potential willingness to support a minority government. “We are open to discussing everything” she stated, reiterating that Merz’s rigid opposition prevents any potential paths forward for both parties.
Beyond the political implications, Weidel characterized Merz as a “burned personalty” within the AfD, indicating a need for a more amenable CDU politician to emerge and facilitate negotiations.
