A senior official of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) has expressed support for the candidacy of the party’s chairman, Lars Klingbeil, for the parliamentary faction leader in the German Bundestag.
The chairman of the SPD’s Seeheimer Kreis, a prominent regional branch, has endorsed Klingbeil’s bid, a move that has been welcomed by the party’s vice-faction leader, Dirk Wiese. In an interview with the “Rheinische Post”, Wiese acknowledged the SPD’s recent election defeat, stating, “There’s nothing to sugarcoat – it was a clear defeat.” He emphasized the importance of uniting the party and working together to revitalize the SPD, with Klingbeil at the helm of the faction.
Wiese, who had previously questioned the party’s decision to field Olaf Scholz as its chancellor candidate, described the current situation as “no easy days and weeks for the SPD.” He attributed the party’s poor performance to a loss of trust and credibility, saying, “We’ve lost credibility with many people and we’ve squandered trust.”
Wiese expressed gratitude towards the outgoing faction leader, Rolf Mützenich, for his guidance and leadership during challenging times. He praised Mützenich’s ability to navigate the party through turbulent periods with prudence, empathy and, when necessary, clear statements.