Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) attended the annual asparagus trip on the Tegeler See in Berlin, but left early to visit the “NRW Fest 2024” in the CDU representation in Berlin. The absence of CDU party chairman Friedrich Merz raised questions about a potential rift between him and NRW Minister-President Hendrik Wüst. However, it was clarified that there was no dispute between them as Merz had a prior commitment to attend the European Economic Conference organized by the “Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung”. Despite this, a conflict arose within the CDU/CSU parliamentary group during a meeting of the faction’s executive board, where Merz expressed strong disapproval towards CDU foreign policy expert Roderich Kiesewetter.
Merz’s outburst towards Kiesewetter during the faction’s executive board meeting surprised many members, as Merz is usually described as a composed figure in party meetings. The conflict stemmed from Kiesewetter’s public calls to declare a state of emergency due to the Ukraine-Russia conflict and suspend the debt brake to provide greater support to Ukraine. Merz emphasized the importance of intra-party cohesion before several crucial elections and rejected any discussions about the debt brake. Kiesewetter’s views sparked criticism from CDU representatives in Eastern Germany, particularly since solidarity with Ukraine differs in these regions.
The disagreement between Merz and Kiesewetter underscores broader tensions within the CDU regarding economic policy, particularly concerning the debt brake and special funds for defense. The issue is significant as the SPD and Greens advocate for a relaxation of the debt brake, while the FDP, led by Christian Lindner, advocates for sound fiscal policies. Merz aims to position the CDU as the party of fiscal discipline, leveraging this stance to differentiate from the FDP and potentially weaken the coalition government. The differing opinions within the party, especially from CDU state leaders, challenge Merz’s leadership on economic issues.
Merz’s reaction to Kiesewetter’s proposals reflects his determination to maintain the CDU’s stance on fiscal responsibility and prevent the FDP from monopolizing the narrative on economic policy. The backlash within the party against Kiesewetter’s suggestions indicates a lack of uniformity in the CDU regarding economic measures. Several CDU state leaders have expressed reservations about the current debt brake policy and called for reforms, highlighting the internal divisions within the party on this issue. Despite the internal challenges, Merz seeks to uphold the CDU’s reputation as the party committed to sound financial governance.
The clash between Merz and Kiesewetter reveals underlying tensions within the CDU over economic policy and intra-party dynamics. While Merz emphasizes the need for party unity and adherence to existing economic principles, Kiesewetter’s proposals challenge the status quo and highlight diverging views within the CDU. The outcome of this conflict may have implications for the CDU’s positioning on economic issues and its electoral strategy leading up to the upcoming elections. As the CDU navigates these internal challenges, the party’s ability to maintain cohesion and project a unified front will be essential in shaping its political future amidst growing pressures and competing narratives within the German political landscape.
