The leader of the Green Party’s parliamentary group, Katharina Dröge, has launched a scathing critique of Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) over his continued defense of a controversial statement concerning urban landscapes and perceived societal shifts. Dröge’s remarks, delivered to RTL and ntv, directly question Merz’s capacity for leadership and accuse him of exacerbating societal divisions.
Dröge’s central argument revolves around Merz’s refusal to retract or clarify the statement, which many interpret as implicitly linking immigration and changing demographics with negative urban development. Instead of offering an apology, acknowledging the potential harm caused to millions of Germans, Merz has doubled down on his position, asserting he has nothing to apologize for.
“This demonstrates either an excessive ego preventing a simple apology, or, more worryingly, that he genuinely intends his words as they were understood” Dröge stated, highlighting a significant rift within German society. She accused Merz of employing a divisive rhetoric unbecoming of a national leader and lamented his apparent inability to unify the country.
The Green Party politician sharply criticized Merz’s handling of the asylum debate and repatriation policies, arguing that his pronouncements lack concrete detail and contribute to a climate of misunderstanding and resentment. Dröge emphasized that she formally requested Merz clarify his remarks and issue an apology within the Bundestag, asserting that his failure to do so implies an affirmation of the original, divisive sentiment. Observers note the escalating tension between the two parties underscores a deeper disagreement regarding integration policies and the potential for further polarization within the German political landscape.