A former FDP faction leader, Christian Dürr, has announced his candidacy for the party’s chairmanship. Dürr declared his bid for the top position on Sunday evening.

“I want to contribute to the FDP’s strong return” he said, explaining his motivation. “Some say it’s not the time for liberal politics.” However, economic and social freedom are needed more than ever, according to Dürr. “Liberals do not hesitate, they fight” he added.

Following the poor performance of the FDP in the February federal election, when the party lost its representation in the Bundestag, party leader Christian Lindner announced his resignation. The party will hold a convention in mid-May to elect a new chairman.