A leading figure in the Social Democratic Party of Germany, Bärbel Bas, has expressed criticism towards the party’s handling of its current chair, Saskia Esken. In an interview with the “Stern”, Bas stated that she has “unheimbar respect” for Esken, but was troubled by the way some party members had treated her. Bas said that she would not have run against Esken for the party’s leadership if Esken had chosen to re-contest the position, as she prioritizes in-depth conflicts over personal ones.
Bas, who is likely to become the party’s first female leader, emphasized the importance of avoiding personal conflicts, as they can leave lasting scars. SPD Fraktionschef, Rolf Miersch, has dismissed allegations of unfair treatment towards Esken, describing her as a key figure in the party’s success. Miersch credited Esken with uniting the party, citing her role in the 2021 election victory of Olaf Scholz and announced that Esken will remain a member of the Bundestag’s education and family committee.