The Federal Justice Minister, Stefanie Hubig of the SPD, has strongly condemned the treatment surrounding the candidate for the Federal Constitutional Court, Frauke Brosius-Gersdorf.
Speaking to the “Süddeutsche Zeitung” Hubig described the manner in which Brosius-Gersdorf was targeted as “an incredible process” highlighting the “extreme personal attacks” the candidate endured. She cautioned that such campaigns risk deterring qualified applicants, a situation that is detrimental and unacceptable.
Hubig characterized the actions of the opposition party, the CDU/CSU, in the case as “more than annoying”. Concerning the governing coalition and the future procedural steps, she emphasized the importance of reaching swift decisions that consider the interests of all parties involved. Hubig underscored the significance of the position of a judge at the Federal Constitutional Court, stating that protecting the integrity of the selection process and safeguarding the candidates-specifically the three individuals involved-from further unwarranted damage is a priority.
The contentious debate surrounding Frauke Brosius-Gersdorf had previously resulted in the postponement of the elections for Ann-Katrin Kaufhold and Günter Spinner from the parliamentary agenda.
Addressing comments made by Bamberg Archbishop Herwig Gössl, a prominent and vocal critic of Brosius-Gersdorf who subsequently retracted his statements citing misinformation, Hubig stressed that irrespective of individual actors, releasing harsh criticisms publicly without proper factual investigation and subsequently correcting those assessments is inappropriate and harmful. She called for increased quality and meticulousness in public debate, advocating for constructive dialogue rather than reactive criticism. Hubig further emphasized the need for a more respectful and considered approach towards candidates, particularly given the reliance on their willingness and commitment, a principle that extends to candidates for positions in the Federal Constitutional Court as well as those seeking roles in local government.