The state of Hesse is mourning the passing of former Minister Christean Wagner, who died on Saturday at the age of 82. The Hessian State Chancellery in Wiesbaden confirmed his death.
Wagner held significant positions within the political landscape of Hesse for many years. He served as Minister of Culture under Prime Minister Walter Wallmann from 1987 to 1991 and later became Minister of Justice during the tenure of Prime Minister Roland Koch, assuming that role in 1999.
His time as Minister of Justice saw the introduction of the electronic monitoring (ankle bracelet) initiative in Hesse. Wagner’s political career continued to ascend as he became leader of the CDU parliamentary group in the state legislature in 2005, a position he held until January 2014.
Current Minister President Boris Rhein of the CDU described Wagner as “a defining voice in Hessian politics” emphasizing his significant contributions to the state and national political spheres. “His death leaves a painful void – for his political family, for Hesse and for all who knew and valued him” Rhein stated. His thoughts and condolences were extended to Wagner’s family and those closest to him during this difficult time.