Internal tensions are escalating within the German political party Werteunion, with prominent deputy federal chairpersons publicly criticizing the leadership of Hans-Georg Maaßen
Jörg Meuthen, a former leader of another German party, described Maaßen’s leadership style as exclusionary, alleging a preference for unwavering loyalty over open discussion He stated that Maaßen fosters an environment that stifles dissent, adding that the approach is “absurd and unworthy of a libertarian party” Meuthen further characterized Maaßen as having a short temper and difficulty accepting criticism
He took issue with a recent video conference, characterizing it as a staged event designed to elicit expressions of support for Maaßen and control the narrative
Sylvia Pantel, a former member of the German Parliament, condemned a decision initiated by Maaßen to remove her as state chairwoman She described the move as arbitrary and undemocratic, predicting it will ultimately damage the party
The dispute centers on the validity of a recent state leadership election in North Rhine-Westphalia Emails obtained by a German newspaper reveal accusations of “mobbing and intrigue” leveled against Pantel and her supporters by members of the federal board Maaßen’s camp claims the election was invalid and that the previous state leadership remains in office Pantel’s team responded with a statement asserting that the party is being used as a “political football” with destructive consequences and that the attempt to remove the state leadership is legally invalid
Maaßen has dismissed the allegations as a “defamation campaign” and denied any wrongdoing, labeling the claims as unfounded and damaging to his reputation