Minister’s resignation rocks Germany’s coalition

The resignation of Baerbel Bas, the labour minister and co-leader of the centre-left SPD, has caused significant turbulence in German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government. Bas cited personal reasons for her departure, revealing that she needs time to grieve following the death of her daughter-in-law. However, she also targeted Merz's conservative CDU party, expressing concern over the persistent public attacks she has faced, including those from within her own coalition partner.

The resignation of Bas, who represents Duisburg, a city in the heart of the former Ruhr mining region, comes at a challenging time for her government. The coalition is struggling with a sluggish economy and low poll ratings. Recent state polls have shown the far-right AfD outperforming the CDU, even in Merz's party's stronghold of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. CDU politicians have accused Bas of obstructing planned changes to working time regulations and pension reform, a priority for the coalition.

Bas's departure risks complicating the reform process, as her ministry is currently preparing a draft bill following a government commission's recommendation to extend working hours to address Germany's aging population. She has agreed to relinquish both her ministerial position and her role as co-leader of the SPD. Alexander Schweitzer, a vice chair of the SPD, will take over as the new labour minister.

Bas intends to retain her seat as an MP for Duisburg, a city emblematic of the former Ruhr mining region. Merz expressed his respect for Bas's decision, thanking her for her commitment and acknowledging the heavy emotional burden she faces as a father and grandfather, wishing her and her family strength during this difficult period.