A German politician, Friedrich Pürner, has left the Bundnis Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW) on Thursday, confirming an interview with the Welt am Sonntag. Pürner, a 57-year-old doctor, was known for his opposition to COVID-19 measures in his previous role as the head of the health department in Aichach-Friedberg, Bavaria, where he lost his position in the autumn of 2020. He was elected to the European Parliament in January 2024 and has been critical of the BSW’s authoritarian party structure and strict membership requirements.
Pürner has accused a group of party officials of manipulating and silencing critics, calling them “intrigant persons” who prioritize their own will over the party’s goals. He has also criticized the party’s leadership, stating that it has developed a cult of personality around party chair Sahra Wagenknecht.
In a letter to the BSW’s treasurer, Ralph Suikat, Pürner described a hierarchical party structure and a culture of mistrust and surveillance within the party. He claimed that a group of powerful individuals has taken control of the party, securing positions and manipulating internal power dynamics.
Pürner’s departure comes amid criticism of the party’s government participation in Thuringia and Brandenburg, which he believes has disillusioned many voters. He also expressed support for holding talks with the Alternative for Germany (AfD), calling it a democratic necessity.
The politician’s views have been met with opposition from within the party, particularly from a faction in Thuringia. Pürner’s departure marks a significant blow to the BSW, which has been struggling to maintain a unified stance on various issues.