Jens Spahn, parliamentary group leader for the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has stated he approaches the possibility of a parliamentary inquiry committee into the “mask affair” with equanimity.
Responding to questions regarding concerns about such a committee, Spahn told “Stern” magazine that he does not fear it. He indicated that an inquiry – a formal investigation – would be “the better path toward processing events and achieving societal peace”. He added that the CDU believes the previous coalition government effectively navigated a challenging period and that demanding retrospective condemnation is unwarranted.
Spahn expressed disappointment with what he described as “malicious accusations” directed at him personally. He emphasized the need to assess his actions within the context of the unprecedented emergency at the time, stressing a lack of initial preparedness. He criticized the retrospective application of standards, arguing that the debate ignores the reality of the global pandemic. While acknowledging the need for a thorough examination of the pandemic’s impact, Spahn suggested that the most significant societal wounds stem from issues such as mandatory vaccination policies, school closures and restrictions on civil liberties, rather than the acquisition of masks.
The Green Party and the Left Party are currently advocating for the establishment of an inquiry committee to scrutinize the “mask affair” and Spahn’s role. Establishing such a committee requires a majority vote, which would necessitate support from either the Alternative for Germany (AfD) or the Social Democratic Party (SPD). Given AfD’s unsuitability as a collaborative partner, the Green Party and the Left Party are increasingly exerting pressure on the SPD to support the creation of the investigative body.