Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel unexpectedly criticized her successor at the head of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Friedrich Merz, after a plan to tighten immigration policy was adopted in the Bundestag yesterday with the votes of the far-right party "Alternative for Germany" (AfD). Merkel, who ruled the country from 2005 to 2021, said that it was "unacceptable" for the CDU to achieve majorities with the help of the AfD, emphasizing that she personally supported Merz's position to avoid cooperation with the far-right, BTA reports.
This public statement calls into question Merz's political strategy and could weaken his influence as party leader.
Merz and migration policy: tougher measures against migrants
Merz, who succeeded Merkel as leader of the CDU in 2021, has taken a harder line on migration issues, leading to proposals for new laws to tighten controls on immigration in Germany.
In recent weeks, he has said that the country has pursued a "wrong immigration policy" over the past decade, highlighting the negative consequences of Merkel's 2015 decision. to accept a large number of migrants.
To achieve these changes, Merz is ready to rely on the support of the AfD, which, however, has provoked sharp reactions from other party members and his opponents.
The political crisis and the consequences for the future of the CDU
This political step by Merz not only tests his internal party support, but also influences public opinion in Germany. Current sociological surveys show that the CDU/CSU is the leading political force with 30% support, followed by the AfD with 20%.
However, criticism of the cooperation with the far right could weaken the positions of Merz, who is trying to counter anti-immigration sentiment without losing the support of centrists and more modern political currents in Germany.