Merz says Germany needs reform, defends democratic order after historic election defeat against AfD
"That is what we need to deliver on now; it is what I want to deliver on, and that is the stance I am taking into talks with our coalition partner," German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasised the need for deep reforms in Germany following his party, the CDU, suffering a historic defeat at the hands of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) in the recent state election. Despite the significant loss, Merz insisted that the country's democratic values and institutions remain strong and stable. He affirmed that the Basic Law serves to safeguard this democratic order.
Merz made his remarks amid the worst electoral performance for the CDU in decades, as the party lost a crucial election in the eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt. He aimed his message not only at his citizens but also at his European counterparts.
Despite the electoral setback, Merz remained committed to the reform decisions his party had made the previous year. He stated that this reform agenda is what the country requires now and what he intends to deliver. Merz's stance remained resolute as he entered discussions with his coalition partner.
Furthermore, Merz addressed the political leanings of the AfD, clarifying that the fact the party is pro-Russian would not influence Germany's ongoing support for Ukraine. He warned of a tangible threat to internal security, reinforcing that the nation's safety remains a priority.
Merz underscored this perspective by pointing out that the eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt, which had just voted overwhelmingly in favor of the AfD, is situated 2,500 kilometers east of Germany. This geographical distance, he noted, does not diminish the pro-Russia sentiment prevalent in that region.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
